Heroe's one and all.

I'd already bought these two items from the Help for Heroe's web site, they didn't cost a great deal but I suppose every little helps. I then came across this poem which brought tears to my eyes.

Repatriation

Once the giant's engines stopped
The cargo ramp is gently dropped.
Carried by six on shoulders true
The hero is saluted by the crew.

The coffin draped in Union Jack
Is slowly carried out the back.
Out of the dark and into light
Slowly down the ramp and to the right.

The six approach the hearse all black
And place the hero gently in the back.
The six then turn and march away
Their duty has been done this day.


Politicians usually have much to say
No sign of them near here this day.
They hide away and out of danger
Much easier if the hero is a stranger.

The hearse with its precious load
Moves slowly out onto the road.
The floral tributes line the route
While comrades snap a smart salute.

At the edge of a Wiltshire town
The cortege slows its pace right down.
The streets are packed, many deep,
Some throw flowers, most just weep.

The crowd have come to say farewell
The church bell rings a low death knell.
Regimental standards are lowered down
As the hero passes through the town.

The cortege stops and silence reigns
The townsfolk feel the family's pain.
The nations' flag lowered to half mast
Our brave hero is home at last.

The poem is by Andy McFarlane who is currently based in Camp Bastion in Helmand Province. I sincerely hope he does not object to my printing it so that all Blip land can read it, and hopefully pass it on as I think it is a fitting tribute to all the service men and women.