They journeyed back

Across continents, an ocean.

Through time and long-buried

Memories.

To stand in an emerald-green field

Neatly punctuated with white

Crosses, Stars of David.

They were supported by

Walkers, canes, wheelchairs,

Each other.

Their memories rushing forward

Like the waves of Normandy

As they set the world free

From tyranny

And became

Prisoners of war

In their own minds

Carrying men to safety

Through the tide of courage.

For long moments

They were not betrayed

By their aging bodies,

Foggy minds.

Once again, they carried

The world to freedom

On their shoulders,

In their arms,

On their honor,

In their hearts.

“I was a young man once.”

Eve Remillard

6/22/19