Thank You For Your Service
By Michael Haas

We've heard those words time and time again,
So often you may have become immune.
There are others to whom we should commend,
Their service and pain became bestrewn.

It’s not only the Veteran that gave to all,
But those that stayed behind and cared.
And to them a celebration too should fall,
They kept our home lights burning and pared.

For every Veteran we never detract,
Your duty to service has kept us free.
It's parents, spouses, and children who felt the impact,
From days, weeks, and hours of unknowing and need.

Remember always their personal plight,
While you were away and out of sight.
For each of them are Veterans too,
Albeit different they suffered through.

The next time you hear those thoughtful words,
Thank you for your service.
Think of your family and those keeping the burgs,
They stood in the shadows and also deserve this.

Whether Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard or Marine,
Your duty was shared on the home front.
Take a moment to reflect on those unseen,
Being ever thankful for their share of the brunt.

As I repeat these thoughtful words,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!
Know they are shared with all that heard,
Your call to arms and purpose.