I wrote this poem in June 2010, after retirement, I was on a civilian assignment in Washington D.C. I visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and I was inspired to write this poem. It seems fitting to re-introduce this poem during the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Tomb (American Legion Magazine, May 2021, "Sacred Centennial", pp.20-24).
I hope all soldiers and past and present tomb guards appreciate and enjoy the sentiment of the poem.

He Guards the Unknown Soldiers © Lance Hylander
June 2010

He marches over the same worn ground
Stop, click, he turns around
Measured paces without a sound
He guards the Unknown Soldiers

His rifle high, his collar tight
His steely eyes pierce the night
A bayonet glimmers in the light
He guards the Unknown Soldiers

He hears the cadence in the air
Of fallen comrades in despair
Duty and honor with no names to bear
He guards the Unknown Soldiers

He has a special call to serve
Those unknown heroes who deserve
Everlasting remembrance for their nerve
He guards the Unknown Soldiers

He hears the echoes of the horn
That plays the soldier’s song forlorn
He alone stands to watch and mourn
He guards the Unknown Soldiers

Let all who see and hear this verse
Understand the ground that they traverse
Holds precious remains of many a hearse
Of all the Unknown Soldiers