Hello again, and happy Veterans’ Day to all who have served. You are appreciated more than you know. For the most part, I believe our nation has done a poor job expressing that in the past. But going forward, some of us are doing our best to change that.

So today, I want to post a poem I wrote on November 6, 2017. It is in my first book, “Inspire Me.” I hope it is a blessing to you and your families.

Veteran Tribute                                                                                               

 by Reba Bailes, a Navy Wife

To ALL military members, no matter branch you served

Few of you’ve been given, thanks that you deserve.

Some of you signed up because you lacked direction

Others were from a home, where you needed protection.

Then there were those, who were simply all alone

The ones supposed to love you, where had they all gone?

Even ones required, in country’s greatest need

Signing on the line, your will you did concede.

No difference who you were, no matter where you’d been

There you were in uniform, new IDENTITY did begin.

Some caught on and quickly climbed the ladder

Others were led astray, felt none of this did matter.

And you might not be decorated, with medals of glory

Pain, scars, and nightmares are more of your service story,

But on this special day, set aside for you

You gave the best you had, our support and thanks are due.

Sacrifices, struggles, even successes, may seem to go unnoticed

Woundedness and hurt you feel, in places not remotest.

Forgive us as a nation; our neglect has let you down

May through that forgiveness, appreciation of you be found.

And as we all move forward, honoring all of those who gave

We pray you receive your healing, and your soul our Lord will save.

Our people and our Nation, in the palm of His mighty hand

Until that fateful day, we reach the Promised Land!

May God bless ALL of You!