A Decorated Soldier

Once on the frontline, brave and bold
A few years later, broken and old
Once he was needed, lives he saved
Now he is lonely, his spirit he gave.
A decorated soldier struggling to survive
He disguises his pain due to his pride
Smiling on the surface, sadness within
Walking tall, weary, and thin.
Yes, we see him, just an old man
With our eyes wide shut because we can.
We fail to notice his badge of honor 
He wears with pride upon his collar.
Which tells a story of a long ago hero
Who fought the war returning with zero
Who loved and lost with a heavy heart
For on his return his wife did depart.
An extended hand was all he did need
To help his transition to civvy life succeed
How different his life may have been
If only a loved one could have seen.

Classic rock  Uplifting