To the editor:

Barrington resident James M. Meehan wrote the following poem in honor of Veterans Day and has dedicated it to his father, James A. Meehan, Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy.

Reading the Veterans of Foreign War magazine and hoping not to be seen, as unlike my father, I have not earned this right, never having prepared to fight

Fortunately, some never saw battle but nonetheless our country’s uniquely dedicated chattel

For a minute, forget those on the Wall who invested their all

Step back and consider these cold engravings as a meaningless and lifeless fact

Rather, consider these breathing men and women with bravery expressed only for their brethren to see

Actions often manifested in utter and indescribable fear and so often against the pure wishes of their dear

Combat, landing and even demilitarized... All Zones and simply places never called Home

Picture yourself alone and surrounded by only those who can moan

This be your reality and knowing there must be paid Shylock’s usurious fee

We know there must be those who cower but Esprit De Corps formed buds may instantly flower

For the military man can ignore and obscure all when one of his fall as the simple mantra of “we can” plays loudly within this brotherly band

Comfort found when dropping in the field knowing these special few will never yield

Burying the hilt as if a stick in murky silt, never easy but rationalized when defending free

Convenient acronyms such as KIA, WIA or MIA denote a most intense strife, but often sadly…another lost life

Stories of heroes forever told of men who will never grow old

Makes no difference black, white, yellow, brown or red when honored posthumously dead

Families left behind…was it because of a mine… or simply another of God’s unwanted signs

A crying game no doubt fraught with possibilities of Are’s fame with better reality of just another engraved name

Today, before some so blindly and proudly kneel…perhaps think how would “they” feel. Take platforms of publicity and cease thinking of me…but perhaps thee

Regardless of belief there never be harm extending an arm to the antithesis of a thief

Caring less on how to self-perfect... searching, searching, searching only for respect

Now, look back at the polished Wall with long tears for their innocent and human fears. But most of all just know so many answered the ultimate call… FOR YOU

For all living veterans and for the souls of their brothers and sisters…Thank you. 

Dedicated to my father, James A. Meehan, Chief Petty Officer, United States Navy

James M. Meehan

Barrington