Solemn faced
and with slow measured tread
the old Alpini comrades
march slowly
along the centre of the road,
their guidon fluttering,
their green uniform hats
proclaiming their former association.
Then,
following his cross
borne by acolytes,
the priest,
perhaps calculating
as he walks
that soon there will remain
no more of these associates
to return to the soil
for which once they fought.
Then the hearse,
modern, shiny-black,
stuffed with floral tributes
from surviving relatives and friends,
a great crowd of whom,
now remembering,
walk behind it to the grave.
We, foreigners, stand and watch
and those of us,
who have our own military association,
are thankful to be there to watch
and to remember.
A contest entry
- 'Images From Around the World' by Cynthia Gaines.
2000 points, ended September 19, 2008, 18 entries
Honorable mention
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest
Comments
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This is one sad moment in time... a forlorn funeral march for an honored veteran. 
I'd like to thank you for taking the time to enter my contest, 'Images From Around the World' with your heart-felt and thought-provoking poetry. The imagery was perfect for this piece! 
Judging will be done soon, and I wish the best of luck to you!! Thanks again, and have a great day!!! Take care, Cyn 
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Cyn
Thankyou for your comments, your rose and your very generous applause.
It's 7am on a sunny spring Saturday morning here in Western Australia, and I'm determined to 'hsve a good day',
I can, I suppose, wish you "Good evening'
Shenton.
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Very solemn. Nice work.
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Thankyou for reading and commenting, and for your generous applause.
Best wishes from 'down-under'.
Shenton
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