Shot At Dawn Poem by Colin Ian Jeffery

Twelve soldiers, the firing squad
Stand reluctant, rifles loaded
One with blank others live bullets
So they do not know who fires the blank
Thinking themselves innocent of the death.

Tied to post young terrified soldier
Still in teens, hands behind the post
Trembling, but not from early morning chill
But knowing death is minutes away
And he will never see his parents again.

Officer in charge of the firing squad
Steps up to the soldier to be shot
Offers blindfold which is declined
Pins white cloth over soldier's heart
Target for the firing squad.

Army chaplain nearby with head bowed
Reads the twenty-third psalm
Officer shouts, "Take aim... Fire! "
Soldier slumps forward secured by tied hands
Twitching violently, chest crimson with blood.