I chanced upon a soldier well bedecked
With medals of gold and bronze…and silver too…
And ribboned cloths of every coloured hue.
Endowed was he with honour and respect.
But then I paused…a momentary thought…
That inner peace of mind…once innocent…
Is now bestained by vile wretched torment…
The cost to him these honours to have brought.

Consumed by grief…burdened by bitter tears…
Remembrance of those who by war have died.
The fallen’s next of kin are notified,
And sore bereaved for their remaining years.
To those who gave their lives…our lives we owe…
Thus is the true cost to be a hero.