A Sailor’s Lament by Bruce Gillies

Two decades of dawns in uniformed stride,
Sailing through the rhythm of an endless ride.
A Sailor’s path, both grueling and grand,
Worn boots, heavy hearts, and a helm’s steady hand.

In ship’s shadow, dreams are forged,
Where friendships bloom and courage urged.
Through deserts’ dust and oceans’ waves,
A Sailor stands, both bold and brave.

From youthful zeal to wisdom’s grace,
Each year etches lines upon the face.
The songs of duty, both fierce and sweet,
In silent moments, they softly repeat.

Salutes and orders, drills and scars,
Watches stood beneath the stars.
Each battle fought, each victory claimed,
In countless storms, the legacy named.

Families wait with hearts entwined,
Enduring echoes of a distant time.
The bonds of the sea, forged in fire,
An oath renewed, a heart’s desire.

Yet as the years draw curtains tight,
And medals glint in fading light,
A warrior’s soul, though seasoned and scarred,
Finds peace in the echoes, the memories unmarred.

So here’s to the journey, steadfast and true,
To the service given and the skies once blue.
In the annals of time, your name shall dwell,
A testament to the life you lived so well.