My Last Hero Poem by Michael Peterson

Not too long ago. I seen a funeral coming
I pulled over for respect
Out of kindness I stepped out of my car
I notice a Flag thru the windshield
As it got closer, I saluted the falling soldier
As the procession came by, car by car, My tears came
To see a small line following. I ran to the car
To follow and honor thy hero
A war hero or a veteran who served proudly
Dying alone and few to remember them.
As we turned into the Cemetery
They took a slow ride to the Veteran's area
I could see the V.F.W men standing by
To honor the person.
Rifles by their side and at attention
The hearse backs up and a few gathered around
I myself jumped from my car
Not dress for this or ready for what's next
I asked to help carry the soldier to their final place
As they opened the door a saluted as they pulled them out
As I grabbed the side rail to lift them
As we walked the final steps
I thought to myself
How did we let this fine person disappear so quietly?
We have no story of them
Just the lonely last days
Their journey now in God's hands
I pray for them and hope I have someone here for me
As we rest the coffin for the last time
Taps begins and I salute and cry for them
I jump as the gun salute begins
As they fold the flag
I barely see the little lady sitting
Crying and now on her knees
Helping her up
I see her so worn and tired
I see my late mother thru her
As they presented the flag to her
I see her salute this young soldier
She tells him this was my last one
My heroes are all gone and their daddy too
Three times I prayed for my loves
They are guarding the heavens above.
Keep the flag son, I have my heroes in my heart
Remember someone one day will be here for you
This flag is for you and your family
It brought us love, Life and freedom
She salutes him and bows her head
I cried so much as I walked to my car
I later found out that this was her last
She passed away not long after
I will remember this year, later from now