In uniforms that long ago fit

The grey bearded men watch longingly

As marching ranks with emotions lit

Take the call to arms so anxiously

What is in their minds this solemn day

As their grandchildren march off to war

Do they fear for them or do they pray

That they would be called upon once more

To take up arms and defend their home

Upon some distant and lonely shore

To embrace old friends and sign the tome

To stand proud in battle like before

If cannon’s roar deals a final blow

Pushing eternal rest their way

Would be an end they’d like to know

To be buried where fallen comrades lay

With misty eyes and canes held high

A final salute from old grey men

Who know their fate is to wait to die

And not know the taste of war again