First In / Last Back Poem by B. V. Dahlen

The flags were all faded,
Seemed baked by the sun.
The crowds had gone home.
The speeches were done.
There were such cheers and parties
For the homecoming TAC,
But the welcomes were muffled
When the last arrived back.
They had shipped the troops over
Helped them all to return
But they didn't make headlines
So they were to learn
If you fly home in fighters
The world knows your name.
Sailing home on a battleship
Earns you the same.
When you get them there safely
And carry supplies
You're the one keeps them moving
But you don't advertise
Though we may not be many
Our welcome to you
Is heartfelt and joyful
And all the more true
Than banners and cameras
And speeches so loud
Just welcome home darlings
You've made us so proud