My dad served in the Army during World War II. He rarely talked about that life event, but when he did, his face showed the pain of war. If I remember correctly, he worked in the military offices in the Philippines and fortunately did not see combat. Nevertheless, my mom said he came home a different man.

My sister was born while Dad was overseas. She kept the telegram our grandmother sent to congratulate him on his new baby girl. I know it broke his heart not to be with his wife and newborn child.

My companion, Walter, served our country in the Air Force in Vietnam. As an aircraft mechanic, he was charged with the maintenance and arming of F-4E fighter jets and provided close air support for troops locked in combat. Like my dad, Walter knew the heartache that comes with being miles away from family.

For all of the men and women who left loved ones behind to give their time and their lives for our country, we thank you for your sacrifices and your service.

Off to War
by Dee Bowlin

Take one kiss before you go
and one bittersweet embrace.
Carry them away with you,
rubies in a drawstring pouch,
to cherish while we're apart.

Add my promise of letters,
each beginning when your arms
reach out to awaken me in streams
of morning sunshine, ending
when my dreams conjure
a gateway where we touch.

For now, your sweet whispers
will ride the springtime breeze,
heavy with the lilac's perfume.
Your laughter will dance
with the autumn leaves while
memories warm the evening chill.

Through summer's sultry afternoons
and winter's snowbound nights,
your woolen coat, hung beside 
the door, awaits you, as I do,
steadfast as the seasons.