THE NAME

THE NAME


I stood beside the rail to read
My name upon the Wall
I touched each raised letter
And felt the teardrops fall;
I felt an arm around me
And when they walked away
I was alone and whispered
What I had to say:

"I hope you know and understand
What I've had to do
Only you would comprehend
What I've been going through;
War was Hell but you know
It's me that should be dead
No-one will know the truth
Not a word I've said."

You and I were joking 'round
When the Captain said to you:
"Come with me right away
There's work ahead to do;"
I still can see the smile
As we winked at one another
He didn't guess our secret
Just knew we were twin brothers.

I heard the bombs exploding
I got the news that night
They brought you back in pieces
At least they got that right;
But when the name was posted
I saw my very own
'Cuz we switched our dogtags
When we were all alone.

So Mom & Dad cry for me
And when we get together
They can see how much I miss
My one and only brother;
I feel my name here on the Wall
And though it's been 10 years
No-one knows our secret
No-one sees my tears.

I re-enlisted after that
And almost met my fate
When I was in battle
And drew my gun too late;
Now I only feel your name
As I no longer see
And God, please forvive me
But I wish He had taken me."