Normandy Moon

I always wonder how you felt that evening in early June,
Airborne in the Normandy air under the light of the shining moon,
Wondering what would lie ahead and how long you’d stand your ground,
could you hear the men converse, did they even make a sound?

I wonder how despite your start of hardship and despair,
Belfast poverty raised a man so tough yet gentle, kind and fair.
I have no doubt that in that glider on that moonlit night,
Your presence instilled in your company the courage to stand tall and win the fight.

Keen blue eyes, hair soft and fair, and your calmness amidst the melee,
within your heart the spirit of the warrior; it resides in all who wear the maroon beret.

I wonder as you dug in that night what went through your mind,
As mortars rained down and shells exploded was war really the ‘John Wayne’ experience you all thought you’d find?

I don’t know how to ever thank you Grandad for all you did for me,
You left this earth too soon, your courage earning me a world where I am free.

This freedom never shall I squander, take for granted or waste away,
Instead I’ll live my life ever grateful for your service each and every day.

And for all your friends who gave their life on that bloody day in June,
I’ll memorialize them forever as I admire that same bright shining moon.