To be Read on Memorial Day

One was a veteran of his country’s wars,
the other, a youth just barely out of college.
Neither had ever met the other before
nor had they expected—more intimate than marriage

to die side by side, making common cause
protecting still younger youth from hateful rage.
Brothers in arms for one moment’s pause,
one instant spotlit on the world stage.

Today, speeches, parades, fireworks after dark
and every regimental flag is proudly borne
in sacred honor around the city’s parks.

So much is true, but this is also truth:
not all our heroes died in uniform.
On the MAX platform, Death stands at salute.

Ricky John Best
Taliesin Myrddin Namkai Meche
On them be peace

Available! High-Voltage Lines, Knocking from Inside