A Soldier's Last Request by Bill Mahon

In the heat of battle, as shadows fall, A soldier stands tall, giving his all. Bullets fly and cannons roar, On this day, his life is no more. As his spirit starts to drift away, He sees angels, bright as day. With wings of light and hearts so pure, They come for him, their intent sure. "Wait! he pleads, with a weary sigh, "Grant me one last look, before I die." They pause, their faces filled with grace, Allowing him this final embrace. He turns his gaze to the life he knew, To the loved ones he now bids adieu. Faces flash before his eyes, Memories of love, laughter, and goodbyes. An old man now, in a young man's game, He wonders if he’d choose the same. Regret mingles with pride so deep, For the promises he couldn’t keep. A life of service, duty-bound, In valor, his purpose found. But in this moment, as life departs, He feels the ache within his heart. For the family left to mourn, For the future he won't adorn. A hero's path he bravely trod, But now he questions, was it flawed? With one last breath, he bids farewell, As angels' wings in silence swell. They take him home, to rest in peace, His battle over, his soul released.