I have just been reading a book about a decorated war pilot from the Vietnam war. Awful, awful time... but then what war isn't...
One of the things that hits me every time I hear about Vietnam is the contrast of the beauty of the country and the vicious war that was being fought. It makes me think of Haiti too... the breath-taking beauty that is there, yet the poverty and degradation that is there...not to mention the corruptness that exists there, within and without the government...and the near constant governmental unrest...
Sad...all of it...
Your poem offers a poignant view into this era and war.
Fortunately I was on a Navy river patrol boat as flying was not something I liked, even way back when I was so young...some memories should be able to be just deleted...Peace the Only Way, ed
I think the chopper ride is still alive for many who experienced that era, almost like a ghost ship--my heart goes out to them all.
Thank you for sharing this, Jerry.
Well said Jerry, and the memories of it all are still alive in the hearts of all who returned and tried to bury their feelings...
Be always safe,
Karen
Reviewed by Andy Turner (Reader)
Reviewed on April 23, 2008
Helicopters are the most difficult thing to fly, and under fire or the threat of it, ones nerve must be steal.
That said, nam, such a sad war, I have american friends from my days on USAF bases who fought there, rare would they ever talk about it, unless drunk.... However, thou shalt not kill, equates to murder, and not killing as in war.
Your poem paints such a picture of natures beauty and mans ugly side...
Reviewed by Flying Fox Ted L Glines (Reader)
Reviewed on April 23, 2008
Well said, Brother! Will the whole LZ light up and you die? Can happen. Or will you and your buddies slide to regroup in the undergrowth quietly? Then where? No matter where, chances are you will have to kill.
patriotism's a game
that's tough to play
for my brothers
who share my pain.
A very tough, grueling, gut wrenching, and hellish game that far too many advocates of war today have never even had the courage to play, and that sadly includes far too many of our current leaders.
My book of poetry is being redone by me, I have a beautiful cover designed and the book will have a few more than 200 poems in it. I am going to have it printed on demand here in Canada. When it is done I will let you know when it is done and if anyo
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One of the things that hits me every time I hear about Vietnam is the contrast of the beauty of the country and the vicious war that was being fought. It makes me think of Haiti too... the breath-taking beauty that is there, yet the poverty and degradation that is there...not to mention the corruptness that exists there, within and without the government...and the near constant governmental unrest...
Sad...all of it...
Your poem offers a poignant view into this era and war.
Cryssa
Thank you for sharing this, Jerry.
Be always safe,
Karen
That said, nam, such a sad war, I have american friends from my days on USAF bases who fought there, rare would they ever talk about it, unless drunk.... However, thou shalt not kill, equates to murder, and not killing as in war.
Your poem paints such a picture of natures beauty and mans ugly side...
Ted
Jasmin Horst
You took us there in chilling lines - no one knows 'til they've been there. Excellent.
(((HUGS))) and love, karla. :(
that's tough to play
for my brothers
who share my pain.
A very tough, grueling, gut wrenching, and hellish game that far too many advocates of war today have never even had the courage to play, and that sadly includes far too many of our current leaders.