On the occasion of my first visit to the Vietnam War Memorial
From Dulles Airport I grow impatient
Not knowing my way around.
It has taken all day
Leaning on my cane
To make final roll call at The Wall.
Anguish long repressed now incites
A Mekong march, broken bones, shattered futures.
At peace, brave ones, we muster at this desolate,
This blessed knoll.
Amid children celebrating credulity
The black gates loom high in the sky,
A magnificent shrine that enrolls your names
Among forgotten gods.
This vanquished leader weeps in his joy.
Here hobbles the barnswallow
Who once lead eagles into the sky.
And such Good fortune is more than I deserve.
Consummate honor to you, brothers all,
From the remnants of the spark to my soul.