Letter

With the loss in Afghanistan of one of our boys in what his comrades would call the “Supreme Sacrifice,” I feel compelled to submit this poem sent by my uncle Wilfred “Old Hickory Division” while in Europe in World War II to his mother Naomi Buerge.

Dear Mom,

I wish I had the power to write

The thoughts within my heart tonight.

I sit and watch a lonely star

And wonder how and where you are.

You know Mom it’s a funny thing

How close a war a son can bring.

And for many months I’ve tried

To keep emotions deep inside.

I told you brave men never cried.

I’m sorry Mom I guess I lied.

For if we stood here to embrace

You’d find a tearstain on my face.

I’m sorry if when I was home

I left you standing all alone.

For it was you who shared my fears

And soothed my heart and dried my tears.

Yes if I had the power to write

The thoughts within my heart tonight

The words would ring out clear and true.

I’m proud to say mom I love you.

Brad Buerge

Bonners Ferry