War veterans, saviours reputed for
Courage, bravery, qualities revered
By all those who feel the violence in war
And know its outcomes are much to be feared.
War veterans deserve our sympathy,
Not praise; for when recruited, they may know
Death, or impairment of mind and body
In order that General’s pensions can grow.
Then who are heroes with no wish to maim?
Conscientious objectors loathe the shrill
Veneration of war; this not their game,
Nor is it their wish to go out and kill.
Reviled, imprisoned, the conchie baffles
Many with dogma that glorifies war,
Who churn and regurgitate won battles -
Gung ho insanity all should abhor.
When will this real courage be understood?
It’s hardly likely in this time and place.
Ready for the next; ‘defense’ seen as good,
As rancid statements of war grow apace.