Michael, what a lovely poem! Did you write that? If you didn't, where did you get it? I'd love to share that with some other people would like to know who to credit.

Tam

> I am a small and precious child,
> my dad's been sent to fight.
> The only place I'll see his face
> is in my dreams at night.
> He will be gone too many days
> for my young mind to keep track.
> I may be sad, but I am proud.
> My daddy's got your back.

> I am a caring mother.
> My son has gone to war.
> My mind is filled with worries
> that I have never known before.
> Every day I try to keep
> my thoughts from turning black.
> I may be scared, but I am proud.
> My son has got your back.

> I am a strong and loving wife,
> with a husband gone.
> There are times I'm terrified
> in a way most never know.
> I bite my lip and force a smile
> as I have watched my husband leave.
> My heart may break, but I am proud.
> My husband's got your back.

> I'm a soldier's sister,
> my brother's out at sea.
> He's on the way to Iraq today,
> to fight for you and me.
> I pray for him each day and night,
> and my voice often cracks.
> The tears may come, but I am proud.
> My brother's got your back.

> I am a soldier . . .
> serving proudly, standing tall.
> I fight for freedom, yours and mine,
> by answering this call.
> I do my job while knowing
> the thanks it sometimes lacks.
> Say a prayer that I'll come home.
> It's me who's got your back.