Symbol

I watched them when I was a child,
Their hearts under their hand.
I saw them crying as they smiled,
But I didn't understand.

They chanted words that made no sense,
But still I chanted too.
Though worlds apart, there was no fence.
One common bond they knew.

With fingers feeling racing pulse,
And chill bumps on their skin,
Their fear of the adversary dulls.
They'll die for friend and kin.

As it's been said with much regret,
"I've just one life to give",
Those patriots I'll not forget
As long as I may live.

That flapping rag before my eyes
Now means much more to me.
This man will fight until he dies
To keep that symbol free.