Warrior - Dedicated to Major John Haynes

 

I call to mind my warrior friend

the mountain of a man

twas he who rose to Major rank

with heart did he command

The valiant one integrity

with honor and respect

of loyalty and leadership

decisiveness' affect

With courage worn this warrior friend

dependable and strong

unselfish acts of leadership

the TACT of righting wrong

Endurance gained initiative

while bearing knowledge willed

commitment to the core at hand

enthusiasm's shield

When fifteen years did volunteer

commitment to the rife

did vow the words thus writ below

Marine for all his life

“I do solemnly swear that I will support and defend

the Constitution of the United States against all enemies,

foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same;

and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States

and the orders of the officers appointed over me,

according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

So help me God.”

With right hand raised and holden high

his set determined brow

commitment to a servant's life

to keep the promised vow

With God and country close in soul

defend protect well known

America the Beautiful

the land he called his own

In Vietnam Korea wars

waged fight in World War II

to save the lives both there and home

his safety never knew

The silver star of valor too

with purple hearts adorned

of wounds he gained within the breach

the metals earned in war

And post the wars Master's degree

in one half years plus two

to forge the battle here at home

for veterans not a few

The monuments and honor stones

Stand downs that he inspired

for Parris Island graduates

the leathernecks acquired

With red coat worn marshaled parades

to honor veterans there

of wars and wounds and damaged hearts

the symbols of their care

And leading those yet left behind

to arm them for their course

the Major speaks beyond his life

attest to God his source

And now assigned to mission new

his weapons laid aside

the finished fight thus left behind

the course that kept his guide

And now at peace before God's throne

with Savior clear in site

to thus receive his great reward

Oorah his battle cry

Stand Tall! Ten-hut my Warrior friend

set fast in His embrace

the God who gave your mission here

with Jesus live in grace

Simper fi Major

Simper fi