"War doesn't solve anything- don't forget".
the last intelligible words spoken between ramblings from a deteriorating mind.
I won't forget.
I'll never forget.
The stories of your service... of bodies piled high and the stench. The capture and the markings on your arm.
I won't forget.
I'll never forget.
I'd like to forget the hollowed face, the tubes and that bleak room. I didn't want to see you like that. Lying there, unable to speak, too weak to open your eyes.
This is how they repay you.
I won't forget.
I'll never forget.
I sat there by your side. As memories long forgoten, flooded my mind... the river, buster bars, John Wayne movies, touching the ceiling on your shoulders... and I thought you'll never know how high you really lifted me. Those summers were my refuge from hell.
I won't forget.
I'll never forget.
You didn't have your hearing aids in but I wispered: "I love you, Grandpa" into you ear, as I cried silently, with my back to them. I felt your hand tremble and saw your eyes water. I hope that you heard me. I hope that you knew it was me.
Sunday, December 8th, 2002.
I'll never forget.