To Be a Soldier: A Poem by E.T. Milligan

from the poetry book ‘Images of Life’

I wrote this poem as a tribute to all military service members who served their country at home and abroad. The chronicles a soldier in a combat zone and the mental and physical challenges that comes with warfare. It focused on the necessity to uphold the principles of duty, honor and country, while in battle under extreme stressful conditions.

To Be A Soldier A Poem by E.T. Milligan

i crowned myself a wandering soul,

conducting patrols for miles on end,

quite often lost, direction of thought,

relentless to bear,

hostile gunfire and guerilla warfare,

renewing the horrors of innocent death

from village to village, everywhere

when cautious winks, brought scattered sleep,

i found myself a restless soul

unable to bear the scattered remains

of cities in flames

from bombs and grenades

yet degradation and annihilation

had met the mission, to counter insurrection

we severed violence through any means,

to bring their leaders, disclaimed by many,

to legitimacy, and status quo ante,

even beneath disturbing dreams

and silent screams

of a battered soldier

yet in the end, was freedom, again

such an awesome burden,

for one to shoulder,

yet it was my duty, to bear it,

to be a SOLDIER

Copyright © Edward T. Milligan, 2005

All rights reserved.

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Life’s journey often feels like navigating through storms, where hope seems distant and shadows of the past linger. Yet, in the midst of darkness, a spark of light can guide us, offering solace and faith. E.T. Milligan's Reflections captures this beautifully, weaving vivid imagery of struggle, resilience, and the quiet calm that follows life’s fiercest trials. Take a moment to immerse yourself in this poignant piece.