I was that which others did not want to be.
 
I went where others feared to go
 
and did what others failed to do.
 
I asked for nothing from those who offer nothing and
 
reluctantly accepted the burden of loneliness.
 
I have seen the face of terror;
 
felt the stinging cold of fear -
 
and enjoyed the sweet taste of a moment's true love.
 
I have cried, felt pain and sorrow
 
But most of all. . .
 
I have lived times that others would say were best forgotten. 
 
After it all,
 
I will be all.
 
I will be able to say that I am proud of who I am. . .
 
A Soldier.