The Gulf War



During the two months America and Iraq fought

Just one hundred and fifty troops came to nought

But it's estimated tens of thousands of Iraqi Guards

Had changed their status in a significant regard ...



Either by surrendering, deserting or being captured

As well as the ones who were killed and enraptured

For the Moslem faith deems it an incredible honor

To die for Allah ... for it's supposed to be promised



... An ascent to heaven and to an everlasting life

Which may be true ... but who could ever deny?

The fact is - the only life we can be certain about

Is the one we all share - on THIS earth without rout



And so - it's appropriate to indicate on Memorial Day

There's no winners in war - no matter what the ways

For when you lay your life on the line fighting ...

The only thing you can be sure of - is death's inviting



- Tristram



© Christopher W. Thomas

6:55pm Memorial Day, '99