The Call

Dedicated to all the American heroes of 9/11,
of history, of today and of tomorrow.

In the time of crisis and trouble, one of our first thoughts is, "Where can I get someone to help me?" One of the genuine blessings of this great country of ours is the fact that we do have emergency and military professionals who are dedicated and committed to public safety and national defense. Sadly, this high and special calling sometimes requires the ultimate sacrifice of health and even life itself. Too often these heroic efforts occur in the absence of expressions of gratitude from those who are being served.

The alarm call rings out on a dreadful day.
"Look up at the horror and come right away!
The need is so great, lives hang on the edge."
"We offer ourselves," is their sworn pledge.

Sirens sound out as heroes swing into action.
Though peril abounds, there is no retraction.
Reaching out for others and giving their hand,
They stand in the gap and die where they stand.

They rush in to rescue while others rush out.
The pathway of safety so rarely their route.
Danger rides with them each and every day.
"The security of others first," is what they say.

It does not take long for our heroes to die,
Leaving many loved ones who wonder why.
Speak up you patriots. Speak up and shout!
Sacrifice and courage are what it's all about.

Stand up thankful citizens of this nation great.
Give honor to all who have entered God's gate.
To those who continue in faithful service today,
When you next greet them, what will you say?

"...In their lives and in their death they were not divided: they were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions. How are the mighty fallen in the midst of the battle!"   (II Samuel 1:23,25)

[ Roger Allen Cook, Copyright © 2002 (rkcook@comcast.net) -- from '2THEHEART' ]