With some luck and time, I'll play around and try to spruce the site up a bit.

I thought long and hard about sharing this post and decided it needed to be addressed.

The Five Star Review
 

Earlier this week I received a five star rating for the current work Occupation. Needless to say, I was really pleased until I saw who provided the flowing rating. Now most of us would rejoice, throw high fives, call a friend or even pop a top to complete the celebration. Of the four, which one do you think I chose? Nope, I chose the fifth option, I called the reviewer. I honestly believe he was going to enjoy our conversation as I thanked him for the rating. Not the case. Before he could say "Hi" I asked him one question, "Did you actually read the book?" You could hear the crickets in the background. Slowly the words were nervously being developed. "Ah.......No?" "Just as I thought. You gave a five star rating and didn't read it? Unacceptable!"

Does this seem a little harsh? Maybe. Was I searching for the truth? Absolutely. Look, we all see the posts and hear of the unwarranted and slanted reviews friends and family are providing authors to assist in pushing the book and making it look good. Maybe I'm from the old school. If it's good, it's good. If it's bad, so be it. I would rather receive an honest two star or three star review pointing out areas that need correcting. In fact, I received a three star this week on a book. Did I wilt and hide under the covers because the reader found something wrong with the book? No. I sent a message looking for clarification. If I agree with the reviewer, I will take it into consideration on the next work. If not, I shall continue forward with the same style. The point here, is, if we don't get honest reviews, readers will pick it up in a heartbeat and believe me, they will not be talking about the good points or the story. Instead, they will be accuse the other reviewers of being "homers." I know. I've read a few books of late that glowed with accolades and congratulations on the work. After reading it, I was still scratching my head trying to figure out if we read the same book. I then went back and started looking at other books the reviewers had rated. I was shock (at first) to see for the most part, it was the first review they ever posted. Yep, there's a fox in the chicken house and he's going to get his fill.

The bottom line, we need honest, insightful and yes, critical reviews when warranted. Readers will acknowledge and identify honest reviews and be more willing to hit the buy button. Oh, did the reviewer take down the five star rating? Yes.

Honey. Is it cold inside, or just happy to see me?

This is a first. I'm speechless. Seriously, this a action packed, humor filled, well paced novel. I believe Rod Serling would have a problem topping this work. How would you classify the following parallels:

Captain Kirk meets James Bond meets Butthead who meets Monty Python meets? I'm still stumped.

However, based on my inabilities to process a cognoscente thought, let's give it a go.

The main character is Case. That's it. Call me Case. This individual is, well, how do you describe a man who has one thing, no two things, no three, no wait. He never gets to the third thought. First and foremost is breeding the other sex. Yet not matter how hard he tries, I believe his best friend is Rosie and her sisters. I'll say no more. The second? He does his absolute best to portray himself as the great lover and hero so as too impress those he has taken an extreme interest in as long as he can be the hero while protecting the exposed flanks. Seriously, why would anyone take on the enemy head on when they are outwitting the enemy or foe by running away with dignity. Sounds like a good plan to me. I mean, if you can't be guaranteed (while risking your life) delving into sumptuous mountains and or perky peaks, why bother? He has a plan. Flawed but it is a plan.

This is a great book for those of us old enough to remember Marsha Brady (wonder why Case missed a trip to suburbia-he went every place else). Why? Because this adventure travels every important and unimportant cinema event the silver screens could host. Oops, there are few for the senior set also.

Bottom line. If you a few hours and need a trip down memory lane packed with humor anecdotes and travel back in time when we [ men] were buff and fighting off the droves of groupies (we never achieved), this the book for you.

It would behoove the makers of Cialis and Viagra to read the introduction. Could be a new marketing slogan. http://www.amazon.com/Bad-Book-ebook/dp/B007SAVB7G/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1342288923&sr=8-2&keywords=bad+book+hise.

I'm posting three reviews on books by Sandy Wolters. If you like books with a good pace, strong female characters and a bit of the paranormal thrown it, you won't be disappointed. She is a very talented writer. http://www.amazon.com/Justice-For-Emily-ebook/dp/B004VB8QJG/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1341508023&sr=1-1&keywords=sandy+wolters.

Justice is Served.

Hmm, where do I start? Did I like the story. Absolutely! I was a little slow in realizing it was a novella and was looking for more development. Seriously, Miss Walters kicks the book in gear and doesn't allow the reader a chance to "catch-a-breath" until the main characters Rachael and Patrick wind-up in each others arms for how shall I say, a very long intimate interlude. Now this is one of the scenes I didn't care for, not that I'm a prude by any stretch of the imagination, but because this was a novella, I really thought it lasted must too long for the length of the book. Is this part of the book well written, Absolutely. Was it hot and passionate? Oh yeah, just a little too long. I believe the time could have been better spent with Patrick's mom (deceased) talking with him and Rachael.

Whoops, got a head of myself. When I was reading the scene where his mom is talking to he and Rachael, I had to back away for a minute and recollect my senses. Why? Because his mom isn't some apparition floating about the house, she is as solid as you or I. I forget, Miss Walters writes paranormal books.

A little more information before I wind this up (don't want the review longer than the book).

A murder occurs in Brownwood, Texas. One of the nicest women in town is Emily Campbell who is married to police Chief Boyd Campbell. Patrick is called on the radio one night to come to the Campbell residence on an apparent suicide by his boss Boyd. None of the police procedural protocols are followed which doesn't settle well with Patrick, but going against his boss doesn't seem like the smartest career move on his part, so he keeps quite while a terrible feeling pulls in his gut. He wants to enlist help, yet has no one to turn to in town. Welcome in Rachael, a Phoenix (somewhat psychic) homicide detective crosses his path while on vacation yet gets lost along her way (she has a real problem with maps and directions). These two will combine forces along with a few town folk and a few other players who are no longer part our world. How they flush out the murderer of Emily is well worth the ride.

This book is for both males and females. Something for everyone and a very fun read.

I will be reading another one of Sandy's books in the coming months, just haven't decided on which one.

http://www.amazon.com/Maggie-Mae-ebook/dp/B004P8K2J2/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1341508023&sr=1-4&keywords=sandy+wolters.

Brilliant writing

This is the second book I have read by Sandy Wolters and it is wonderfully written. She has a true flair in prose.

The general plot is well devised and crafted. Little Maggie May has had a very rough five years. Her husband is murdered on their wedding night when they both decide to take a trip to the local convenience store. For the next five years she locks herself away from life thinking she will never fill the void her beloved Jimmy left in her heart.

She is out of town on business when her brother decides to lend a helping hand in bringing down a tree that is on its last leg. The tree (while coming down) mysteriously and unexplainably diverts from falling harmlessly to the ground and instead crashes onto the house she and Jimmy built. Her brother calls the local Chief of Police fearing for his life. He is convinced that his sister, (all 5' 2" of her) will promptly put an end to his life upon her return.

The catastrophe triggers a host of chain events that will pit the police chief and a long time family friend against each other in hopes of wooing Maggie to the altar.

This is a fast paced novel and you will be finished before you know it!

One other note. Since both of her parents have passed on, I wonder who is going to give the bride away if she makes a choice between her two highly competitive suitors?

Well done Miss Sandy. I will be reading A Brother's Love in the next month or so.

http://www.amazon.com/A-Brothers-Love-ebook/dp/B005CDAFOG/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1341508023&sr=1-3&keywords=sandy+wolters.

She did it again!

This is the third book I have read by Sandy and I'm here to tell ya it's just as good as the first two. Without going into the details of the book I'm going to address her style.

Sandy has an excellent way of developing her characters to the point the reader is thrust into the scenes becoming completely immersed. Her trait of inventing short, petite, firebrand females is amazing. All of her gals are true "show stoppers," but men, beware. There bite is definitely worse then their bark. Men are constantly falling over their own two feet vying for the affections of the heroine. Those males that are somewhat familiar with the gals realize that the wrong word will have extremely dire consequences to the male physical and mental psyche. Well done Miss Sandy.

A brother's love "in a tight" is about our heroine Pilar (FBI) agent and other agents who foil a bank robbery and shoot Thomas Baker (Founder of the Snowflake Militia) dead. His brother Boone puts a one million dollar bounty on Pilar's head. She is unwillingly whisked away to a safe house supposedly for her protection. The men on the farm - no ranch, aren't so sure who needs protecting. Them or she. Everything appears to be moving along nicely until Pilar is notified that her brother, sister-in-law and nephew have been murdered. Will her brother's love assist in hunting down the killer or will Pilar spend the rest of her days looking for the man responsible for taking away everything she ever loved?

Like the other two books, Maggie Mae and Justice for Emily, a Brother's love is faced paced and intense. The only critical thought on this story was maybe a little too much time was dealt with Pilar being in protective custody at the ranch. Other than that, the story is a wonderful fun quick read.

A little over a year ago, I was talking to my daughter about Mom. "Savanna, she doesn't have much time. If you want to see her one more time, I'll watch the girls. I think you need to make this trip on your own." She didn't hesitate and accepted the offer. She drove to Tulsa and spent the weekend with her grandma with no interference or distractions. She and mom had a wonderful visit. Sadly, it was their last. She was sad knowing the clock was ticking down, but she was very proud of herself (as was I) for making the trip. She grew up a lot that weekend.

Are you ready for vampires to regain their standing in the genre? Are you ready for them to stop "sparkling" and take on a worthy opponent? Then wait no longer. This book will satisfy even the most "bloody thirsty" appetites with an added twist; one of the clans is able to release a very nasty bacteria into their respective hosts which after ninety days or so unleashes a very ghoulish end to the recipients.

The Third Reich has Occupied Poland. The plan of "relocating" the population is well underway with one problem the Germans could have never imagined. They unknowingly are removing the food supply of the Romanov and Boirarsky vampire clans. Needless to say, they do not care for each other at all. Too much bad blood has been spilled over the past centuries. Will they be able to unite and take on the true enemy; the Third Reich, or will they perish as the food supply quickly diminishes?

Get a copy today and find out if the Romanov and Boirarsky clans will succeed in uniting and dealing the Third Reich their first of many defeats.

http://www.amazon.com/Occupation-ebook/dp/B005XA1FZQ/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1341330465&sr=1-3&keywords=jeff+dawson

Why did Everything Happen

Spring 2004: With another failed venture on the horizon, foundations were being shaken again. That one word was resurfacing, “FAILURE”. Not again. Why is history repeating itself? Everything was in place. There is no sane explanation for what happened. Joined a church, lived right, took care of the kids, donated to charities. We did everything right this time! So why is this happening?

The bus driver just kept his eyes on the road. “This is maddening! Say something! Where are we going? Get off this road now!” No response. A shift of the gears. The white stripes are flying by faster. There is no place to pull over and stop. STOP! PLEASE STOP! THIS ISN'T THE PATH WE WANT!http://www.amazon.com/Everything-Happen-Cancer-Recovery-ebook/dp/B004EPYUSA/ref=sr_1_5?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1341330317&sr=1-5&keywords=jeff+dawson.

This book by Charity Parkerson is a must for the gals.

Danger Undercoverhttp:http://www.amazon.com/Danger-Undercover-ebook/dp/B007JNKFKG/ref=sr_1_6?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1341330145&sr=1-6&keywords=charity+parkerson

Five stars for the gals/three-and-a-half for the guys.

Well now, this was interesting to say the least. I have read a few books over the years that tie characters together but never anything quite like this.

Charity has done a very interesting feat in combing the lives of all her characters: Avery, Caitlin, Autumn, Jake Lewis, Jackson, Ewin, Catriona, and Dan.

Nothing, I mean nothing appears as it seems. The reader is whisked right into the action with our heroin Caitlin (or one of them) finds herself in a not so appeasing situation. She is the unwiiling guest of Allie and James (her ex-boyfriend). From this moment on, the plot only thickens, thickens, and keeps thickening as more characters become involved with solving why Caitlin was kidnapped and almost unceremoniously eliminated. The reader will enjoy how when each new character is introduced. You find out there is connection, whether it is work, an old acquaintance or family? Yes family. From childhood friends to connections with the Underworld. Military contractors to a distant aspiring newspaper writer. Tell me that doesn't encompass the full spectrum. Tom Clancy might need to check this one out for future ideas.

Who do I think would enjoy this read the most? Women, hands down. No doubt about. Gals like a whole lot of romance with a bit of tension. She excels in this area. Being of the male persuasion, I prefer a bit more action, but hey, I can see where Charity could build a very large following with her description of males who rival the Gods of Greece or Rome. What women wouldn't enjoy sliding their hands over very well sculptured muscles. I chose not to look in the mirror at this time, thank you.

Why three and a half stars? If there would have a little more time spent on the scenes when the bad guys meet their demise and the aftermath, that would have garnished the extra half star. Could be because I might be just a tad jealous of the men she summoned to the pages. Personal problem I know.

So gals, if you are looking for a book that will keep you on the edge or your seat wanting more from the male characters, wait not another minute longer, get a copy with an ample supply of batteries and prepare to have your imagination rocked!

I have a lot of reviews to post and will try and do one every third day or so.

Okay, I keep forgetting I have this tool in the arsenal. It's time I started using it. I'll work on changing the background when I figure it out. Just finished a great book for YA by Christine Hughes. Below is the review and link.

Back off Buffy!

I raised an eyebrow or two before I decided to take a stab at this one. Seriously, my genre is non-fiction history. In the past months I've taken a moment and stepped away from the comfort zone to see what else is out there. Some of the books have been really good while others shouldn't have been written. This one falls into the first category.

We have all seen the same old story line concerning good and evil. It's been done a thousand times with the same results, but never have we seen it from the eyes of a seventeen year old who is about to find out what everyone else already knew; she (unwillingly) holds the key between darkness and light. She alone can decided the fate of mankind or will she straddle both worlds and play both sides? That's pretty cool. This reminds me of "Time Weaver" by Thomas A. Knight.

The key players are Lucas, Ethan and Samantha. Lucas and Ethan have been charged with training her for a coming battle. She hasn't a clue what is going on. Hm, how many seventeen years old (male/female) have we known with that quality? Can't count that high.

The most intriguing part of the book, it is told in the first person. No one is describing the events or adding unwanted commentary. The words are coming from Samantha and her feelings. This is right up there with "Scars" by Patience Prence.

As I read farther, the plot and action picked-up. I can see where every teenage girl who thrilled with the adventures of Buffy and today's True Blood and Vampire Diaries will fall in love with this story. What teenager doesn't want to be a true heroine while also exploring the sensations and feelings of love? They can also relate to the inner demons facing Samantha as she is forced to decided which side to take and which lover will do? Ah, but there is a problem. Are the potential mates there to train and watch over her, or is there a more sinister plot brewing?

Will Samantha's rage for her father's death guide her to the dark side or will she learn how to control her hate and channel it in the right direction? Think of the movie "Red Dawn" when the guerilla's learn that their parents were executed. How did that turn out? Yep, Samantha is full of pent-up energy that when used out of rage and anger has everyone ducking and taking cover, and I MEAN EVERYONE!

http://www.amazon.com/Torn-ebook/dp/B0089Z7QBY/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1340669038&sr=1-1&keywords=christine+hughes.

I recommend this book to all girls and women who are thirsting for a strong female character who never completely conquers her inner demons.

Today only, Occupation is free on amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Occupation-ebook/dp/B005XA1FZQ/ref=sr_1_5?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1336235865&sr=1-5.

I spent over two years looking for a competent editor. I talked with friends and colleagues. Many offered there services yet they couldn't meet the deadlines. Others reviewed the manuscripts and supplied thoughts and comments but still fell short of the desired product. I went so far as to use a service on  E-lancer. Elicited bids for the current book in publication. Received twenty-four bids and painstakingly picked a winner. I was convinced I had found the right person for the job. Not the case.

I didn't give up. I kept watching the Amazon threads and interacting with participants. I came across a gal who said she'd give it a go. To date she had gone through two other manuscripts and picked out mistakes others didn't catch. Her name? Bev Harrisson from Down under. Too date, I have suggested her services to other writers and it appears the results have been most satisfactory.

If you are tired of hunting around for a good quality conscience editor, look no farther. Bev can be reached on her website bevharro.livejournal.com. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.

I have four more books in the works and she will definitely be doing the work.

The website is up and running; lddjenterprises.com. Come take a look at all of the products currently available for purchase. With luck, will publish three if not four books this year along with another poster for Occupation.

Finally got a twitter account, JeffDawson59. Join in and add your thoughts and comments.

Deep Ellum Festival April 6th through 8th. Dallas,Tx.

I will be autographing copies of "Occupation," Love's True Second Chance," and "Why did Everything Happen" on Saturday and Sunday form 1:00pm to 3:00pm at the festival. I will be at Crowdus and Main street in front of The Deep End.

I will also be offering T-Shirts for the book Occupation. So, if you're in town during the weekend, stop by and say hi. It would be great to see everyone there.

Why did Everything Happen

It has been many tomorrows, and each day is better than the last. What happened at the cemetery on August 19th, 2009, was a revelation. Larry, Dad, and Debbie paid a visit and somewhere in the conversation they removed all of the grief that had completely engulfed the mind, body, and soul. They erased any and all questions about an afterlife. It does exist and it is a place of healing, guiding, and understanding. They are at peace and were able to share that.

And the bus driver? He had a huge smile on his face. He brought the bus to a stop, turned off the engine, and opened the door. We both got off. He looked us in the eyes and said, “Well done.”

He placed a warm, loving hand on the shoulder and allowed us to cry. The bus driver, our eternal father is going to console us as we have consoled our LOVED ONES.

“Son, what has been so bad? Yes, there were business failures along the road. They had to happen. Yes, you lost those that you loved with all your heart. You provided them comfort in their times of need. You were there when it counted the most. So what is so bad? Are there any regrets?” What is there to say? It all made sense for the first time.

The failed marriage, the collapse of several business ventures, the passing of Larry, Dad, and Debbie. It all somehow made sense. Each financial and personal loss led to a spiritual rekindling. Slowly at first but with time it gained momentum, like the white stripes passing by faster. It was his plan - to call for a reawakening, to revise the business plan. His plan for one to recognize that love, compassion, and faith far outweighed the material and financial gains that so encompassed the original mortal plan. And really, who could have asked for a better plan. A plan that allows us to be where we are needed the most when it really matters and counts.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Yd2PzoF1y8

Why did Everything Happen?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVYxKRXDT2I

Arrived at the cemetery around 7:00pm. Plenty of sunlight left so reading the names on headstones was easy. It has been twenty years since lying Larry to rest and would have to draw on memory as to his location. Came across many veterans of WWI, WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. Bowed the head and stood a minute to acknowledge their service and sacrifice for our country. Came across husbands and wives, daughters and sons. The one that really stood out was the young couple who had died within twenty-four hours of each other. What happened? Car accident, house fire, robbery gone bad? But no Larry. Walked the full length of each garden plot looking for a familiar landmark. No Larry.

Totally alone. Couldn’t find him, couldn’t help Debbie, lost in a sea of grief and pain, like a thousand daggers turning slowly in the heart, soul, and gut with each step taken. Tears flowed uncontrollably.

Turned and started walking back towards the truck. Each step more agonizing then the last. Kept looking back at the cemetery thinking that something has been overlooked or forgotten. There were a few other mourners about, but nothing else. Something is missing, but what? Was it the plaque that wasn’t quite able to make out or the scribed monument left unread? What is it?

Fifty yards from the truck there is a praying garden. There were five granite benches, with landscape rocks in a semicircle. It was a place to view those who had been cremated.

It isn’t time to go. There is still something here, something drew us here tonight. But what? Sat down on the first bench, lit a cigarette and continued crying. Called out to God, Larry, Dad, Debbie.

Why? Why has all of this happened?

Why did Everything Happen?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0r74rxvWxo

Little was known that the bus driver had another path chosen and it wasn't the “Grand Strategy” as laid out by a mere mortal. Looked at the bus driver for some type of recognition for the current accomplishments and successes, Nothing.

NOTHING! WHAT MORE IS THERE? STOP SHIFITING GEARS AND ANSWER! LOOK UP AND SAY SOMETHING! A nod of agreement. A smile of encouragement. What else is there to do? This is maddening, but so be it. We shall continue “OUR” course.

But there was something else. Unfinished business of the heart?

For thirty years sought out the one true love of life, my high school sweetheart, Debbie. I knew a woman like her would not stay single.

She would marry, raise a family and have a really good life. We all have loves in our lives, but Debbie was different. There is a song about faded memories, ribbons from her hair, torn faded photographs (I have both). Her memory never faded from the heart.

Her personality, smile, and infectious laughter made a lasting impression on all she came in contact with.

Our lives took different paths, yet we stayed in touch without seeing or talking to each other. Usually word of mouth, or a mutual friend would pass on a snippet through modern technology.

Early December 2008: was in Tulsa for Shawn’s fight (an aspiring kick boxer). Just being in Tulsa stirred the old feelings and curiosities about Debbie and her life. Talked to Shawn for around ten minutes about dropping off a business card at her parents’ house. His suggestion, “Quit being old and scared, and just do it.” It still took thirty minutes to leave the card in the mailbox. Felt like high school all over again.

Two weeks passed without a word. Resigned to the fact that either her parents had moved, she was married or in a relationship and would never hear from her again.

Why did Everything Happen

Spring 2004: With another failed venture on the horizon, foundations were being shaken again. That one word was resurfacing, “FAILURE”. Not again. Why is history repeating itself? Everything was in place. There is no sane explanation for what happened. Joined a church, lived right, took care of the kids, donated to charities. We did everything right this time! So why is this happening?

The bus driver just kept his eyes on the road. “This is maddening! Say something! Where are we going? Get off this road now!” No response. A shift of the gears. The white stripes are flying by faster. There is no place to pull over and stop. STOP! PLEASE STOP! THIS ISN'T THE PATH WE WANT!

Why did Everything Happen?

In the summer of ‘89, Larry started experiencing abdominal pain and cramps. The doctors were stumped. The pain was increasing with each month. The problem was finally identified. Larry has colon cancer and surgery is a must. He would have the surgery in December and then we would reevaluate his ability to come back to work.

The surgery was a success. Everything looked great. The cancer was gone. His pain was gone. A few months later it was time for his check up. Devastating news. Larry has inoperable liver cancer. He had maybe four months to live. Couldn't let him wither on the vine and just die. We agreed that as long as he could drive, he had a job.

He worked until the end of June. He was slowly losing his strength and weight. He looked up while setting forms one day and said, “Jeff, I just can't do it anymore. It's time.” Those words were crushing. Why Larry? What had he done to deserve this? I was not very happy with the almighty. Larry passed in August. The bus driver smiled.

The company continued to grow and prosper. I was running on auto-pilot and never realized it. Some other force was driving the company. There was something on the horizon that couldn't be identified.

Remebering

For those who have and are still serving;

Remembering

So young,

So full of life.

Their dreams would have to wait.

They took up arms when called.

They vowed to protect the innocent.

They promised to return.

They never looked back.

For God, Country, Flag and Family,

they marched off.

They filled the depots with excitement and awe,

Many had never left home.

They did not shirk a duty.

They embraced it with the gusto of youth.

The training was hard,

but they nary complained.

They had been called and would not fail.

Righteousness and justice would be served.

Steamers, transports, and planes departed

to destinations foreign and unknown.

Did they tremble? No.

Did they fear the unknown? No.

Their mission was for freedom from oppression.

Their youth would bring order to the world.

It was time to right wrongs.

It was time to free the down-trodden.

Belleau Wood, Flanders, Bastogne, Guadalcanal.

The names are so strange yet not a complaint is filed.

Normandy, Tarawa, Iwo Jima.

With gusto and grit they fought on.

Caen, Kabul, Baghdad, Tunisia, Metz and Arnhem

They fought on.

Too many friends were dying or maimed.

The sound of shells and bullets were frightening.

Never knowing when one might pass struck no fear.

The mission must be accomplished.

They fought on.

Okinawa, Burma, Bunker Hill, and Charleston.

Saigon, The Iron Triangle, Kason The endless Deltas.

The message the same.

Right the wrongs and don't stop til the deed is done.

How many have died? Too many!

How many have been freed? Not enough!

How much longer? Til the job is done.

They fought on. Freedom will reign.

Tokyo, Berlin, Rome, The Somme.

They fought, they bleed and died,

All in the name of freedom.

The smoke has cleared.

The losses are tallied.

The camps are empty.

White crosses mark the path of youth lost.

The survivors wonder why?

Why did Joe and Bill die so young?

Why did I live?

Why me?

For Freedom.

To remember the past.

To remind generations to come the price of liberty.

The thought provides minor comfort.

They survey the battlefields and remember.

The long cold nights,

The days filled with rain,

Endless guard duty,

Mess kits filled with mush.

A smile creeps across a grizzled hardened face,

Freedom, that is why we came,

Liberty, is why we fought.

Justice has been served.

A last salute to the fallen but not forgotten.

The men and women who have given all.

The veterans of the United States Military.