I sat on a FOB knowing what needed fixed
Hundreds of soldiers in a dining facility
Indirect fire every day at this target
A suicide bomber demonstrated enemy ability
Common knowledge not to gather in groups
One grenade will kill all our drill sergeants said
I’d live to see that wisdom come to fruition
That mistake caused many wounded and dead
Unvetted civilians walked freely on Marez
I took some to the vetting unit with no success
These civilians did not display their badges
The bomb exploded with no blame just a mess
The high command brought in radar units
These triangulate mortars to destroy them
Counter batteries were to protect our own
The choice not to use them in my mind a sin
Unnecessary convoys made no sense at all
Some of our own wanted to make a big splash
When I had the opportunity to stop foolishness
I told a couple senior officers to kiss my ass
In the Department of Corrections I came to see
Unnecessary murder and staff assaults
It all came back just like in Mosul
Again those in charge seeing no fault
Don’t mind a fight when it is has to get done
Until unnecessary deaths is what I see
Despised what I couldn’t changed what I could
I didn’t choose this fight it chose me
JBentley-06Dec2025
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Author:
JBentley (Pseudonym) (
Offline) - Published: December 14th, 2025 10:33
- Category: Unclassified
- Views: 8
Offline)
Comments3
Militant answers fill this poem with reflection too many unnecessary deaths. Well worded
So much in life draws a reflection from war. I’m not against the application of violence against the violent, but the leadership must care about right and wrong, especially regarding those in their care.
In times of old the king lead the forces to prove his courage and valor and the righteousness of the cause. Now they sit protected as well as their family. Maybe we should consider a change.
You are absolutely right. Keep in mind that some leaders still lead from the front, just not many.
Reality from the inside.
Using art to heal, nothing but respect
And thanks for your service
That is my purpose, healing for me and those I care for. My service was my honor. Thank you!
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