The Final Inspection.

Never forget!

Its the soldier, not the reporter who has given us the freedom of the press.
Its the soldier, not the poet, who has given us the freedom of speech.
Its the soldier, not the politicians the ensures our right to Life, Liberty and
the Pursuit of Happiness.
Its the soldier who solutes the flag, who serves beneath the flag and whose
coffin is draped by the flag

This was posted originally by Bubba’s Girl, it is a beautiful poem.

THE FINAL INSPECTION.

The soldier stood and faced God, which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining just as brightly as his brass.
Step forward now, you soldier; how shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek? To my church have you been true?

The soldier squared his shoulders and said, No Lord, I guess I ain't.
Because those of us who carry guns can't always be a saint.
I've had to work most Sundays and at times my talk was tough.
And sometimes I've been violent because the world is awfully rough.

But I never took a penny that wasn't mine to keep
though I worked a lot of overtime when the bills got just too steep.
And I never passed a cry for help though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God, forgive me, I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place among the people here.
They never wanted me around except to calm their fears.
If you've a place for me here, Lord, it needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much so if you don't I'll understand.

There was a silence all around the throne where the saints had often trod.
As the soldier waited quietly for the judgment of his God.
Step forward now, you soldier, you've borne your burdens well.
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets, you've done your time in Hell.

Author Unknown