A Soldier's Autograph

An American soldier's autograph,
Written not on paper or stone;
Etched in ink on a child's palm,
A small reparation for many years
Of tyrannical fear, needing to be atoned.


Thank you for setting us free,
The young Iraqi boy joyously declared;
Thank you for being my friend,
The American soldier, looking
Into tearing eyes, did compassionately stare.
Please sign my sweaty hand,
Another Iraqi child boldy asked;
As in freedom's bright sunlight,
He and the soldier did courageously bask.
The soldier was encircled by happy children,
Not enough time to sign each child's hand;
For a few lucky Iraqi lads,
A treasured keepsake from freedom's new land.

An American soldier's autograph,
Not written on paper or stone;
Etched in ink on a child's palm,
A small reparation for many years
Of unthinkable cruelty, needing to be atoned.