Sonnet for Service

With steadfast hearts and purpose bold they stand,

A chosen few who answer duty’s call.

Through trials fierce, through fire, sea, and land,

They rise unbowed, unshaken, giving all.

No threat abates the oath they swore

Protect; defend, for Duty, Honor, Country

Their fearsome presence prevents most war,

They shield the weak. They keep us free!

Their sacrifice oft writ with blood,

For stranger's lives they give their all.

And standing watch in rain and mud

They chain man's evil into its stall.

Let nations sing their praise, let voices swell—

For those who serve, who fight, who guard us well.