by Cpl. Robert L. Cook
Jan. 1942~Sept. 1945
I have often wondered
As most of us do
Who have gone to battle
And have come through,
For what purpose
Was I saved?
Have I yet to find a place
Where I was meant to be?
What deeds have I yet to do
That were meant for me?
Am I yet to save the world
Or else some meager thing?
No hero was I in the Corps,
I followed the rules
And nothing more.
I went whenever I was told,
Sometime frightened
Sometimes bold.
Somehow I managed
To survive,
Kept my head down,
Kept alive.
I marched with those
Who had been brave,
Some who had
My ass saved,
And never let on
That I was scared
When they were
Being Marines.
I suppose someday
I will know
Why I was kept alive
When better men
Had to go.
Only God will ever say,
Perhaps on
My judgement day.
* * *
About the author: Robert Cook served with Reg. Weapons Co.(2d-2d) from 1942~44, at Guadalcanal
and Tarawa, during a 33-month overseas tour.
