The death of a Hero

Tommy stared at his best mates Kens grave
Seeing a 19 year old soldier smiling back
Cigarette hanging from the side of his mouth
Before the eve of attack

Wiping away a tear wondering why he lived
Wishing it was him instead
Saluting his friend
When will it all end
Feeling the bullet scar on top of his head

As he walked down the path a gang approached from his side
Laughing and calling him names
He marched straight through them all
Standing proud and tall
No time for their childish games

Tommy never felt the blow that killed him stone dead
Never felt the kicks at his lifeless body
Never felt the hands steal his wallet and medals

“Do you need a light for that cigarette Kenny?”

© Tony McNally

This is a fictional poem but sadly this sort of thing does happen, A land fit for Heroes? I think not!