When I was 13, I decided to write this poem after visiting the National World War II Museum, in New Orleans, to commemorate the deeds of the allied soldiers as they charged the beaches of Normandy. I tried to actually imagine myself there, and then convey that imagery. Anyway I hope you enjoy it.
Though onward towards the morning star
We did not start this mighty war,
But by God we will finish it!
We sight the land, guns blazed.
Then crouch, barrels razed.
For steel above hazed.
Together united!
We approach the shore,
Knowing in truth that death is war.
Bullets rain like hails of fire,
Then forward we charged.
Waves crashed as men fell,
They resigned to wound and shell.
Onto the beaches, we ran like hell,
The beaches of Normandy!
Plagued to see our comrades slain,
Plagued to feel so much pain.
The last hope of the world,
Under fire from the cliffs above.
Oh, the splash of the water,
The blood and slaughter,
Death befallen from blast of motor,
Though forward we pressed!
The Nazi were routed but we gave chase,
Though many men vanished without a trace.
Finally on the cliffs, we countered.
We fought on with liberty in mind.
Guns sounding from left to right,
The chance of life, it be so slight,
How could one not be taken by fright?
On that beach stained red!
Beyond the cliffs we see them flee,
But soon back they shall be.
In time being, we rally.
For on that day right prevailed.
For freedom we fought,
For justice we sought,
For liberty was brought.
Grace be with us.
