Service to the nation is a job beyond one’s self

It’s a solemn noble duty, far above most else

 

So when the drums are silent and the 

dogs of war at rest, 

What happens to the swords?

Our generation’s very best? 

 

They hit the civvy streets with angst 

And fear of what to think,

Some never find their solid ground 

‘Cept when steadied with the drink. 

 

Too many have we lost to death 

Beyond the battlefield. 

Too many have we buried 

here at home, upon their shield. 

 

One veteran suicide is one 

loss too great to bear 

for the family of our nation;

This grief we must commit to share. 

 

Too many words are said within the walls of speakers house. 

Too silent are the cries of ours, louder 

we must now shout. 

 

Another loss from suicide 

Is a war of sad attrition,

So SCOMO please just cut the shit, 

Announce a royal commission. 

 

Greeny 2021 

 

FILE PHOTO: Australian Army snipers from Force Protection Company at the Taji Military Complex, Iraq. Photo by Corporal Jake Sims

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