The Very Last Memorial Day Parade


The old Veteran looks on,
As the small crowd gathers near,
And he thinks, "Not half as many
As there were this time last year."
But a few won't let themselves forget,
And a few still shed a tear,
At The Very Last Memorial Day Parade.

His thoughts drift to an early time,
When hundreds line the street;
To proudly hail and wave their Flags
As favorite Bands compete.
The Marchers smartly strut their stuff
To the Drummers' stirring beat,
At The Very Last Memorial Day Parade.

The Pipers and the Buglers
Sound their rally loud and clear;
Old uniforms are dusted off,
And medals reappear -
The Color Guard is greeted
By a mighty rousing cheer,
At The Very Last Memorial Day Parade.

He smiles, to see the 'Buddy-Poppies'
Blooming everywhere -
These loyal, loving Patriots
Who take the time to care,
Distinguished Guests are introduced
And tributes fill the air …
At The Very Last Memorial Day Parade.

But now, a solemn moment:
The Crowd bows its head as One -
For Those Not Present, gone before,
In battles lost and won.
The Pageantry and Glory fade;
His Daydream's finally done,
At The Very Last Memorial Day Parade.

The Old Vet sadly shakes his head
And stares down at his feet;
Alone again, his footsteps
Echo through the empty street -
And he wonders, "Did The SPIRIT die,
Or did it just retreat ?"
At The Very Last Memorial Day Parade.

For Veterans who gave their All,
Has the Final Taps been played ?
Will our Nation turn her back once more,
Another Debt unpaid ?
So easily forgotten, then -
Those Promises we made…
At The Very Last Memorial Day Parade ?


Tim Murphy
M.D. 2002