My Father's Badge

In boyhood days I used to feel, that gold and silver shield,
And heavy it felt in my little hand, that was my Father's badge.

The teenage years were wild times, running forward though half blind,
Always he was there to guide my path, that was my Father's badge.

As a man, I stood at his side, he would teach and sometimes chide,
Duty, Honor and more he had, that was my Father's badge.

Along his graveside I did kneel, through the air, solemn Taps did peal,
"And I'll cherish your symbol of service, Dad" that was my Father's badge.

Perhaps someday if I have a son, and if he's asked what his father had done,
He'll say with prideful eyes so glad, that was my Father's badge.

Brian K. Eddy
May 15,1994

Dedicated to the memory of all those who have made the
Ultimate Sacrifice in service to their communities.
They do for us what We can not, may their Badges never fade.