Thank you for your service,
your sacrifice, and more,
your life laid on the line
in times of peace and war.

Dedicated to a purpose,
a nation, and a creed,
to defend the constitution
and keep a people free.

Thank you for the sacrifice
of laying roots aside,
of your family rarely knowing
where next they would abide.

For the times of separation
from those dear to your heart,
for those costs that can't be measured
and prices only known in part.

I understand the call of duty,
how you don't claim to be a star,
please know you're honored and respected,
for all you've done and who you are.

J. Christopher White