THE STRIPES COME OFF

Another brother in arms from my unit has just retired. In his honor I post an old poem that I wrote for a good friend upon his retirement from the Air Force in 1999. This was also read at my retirement in 2002.

THE STRIPES COME OFF

The stripes come off, the suit goes on, a new life you have begun.
You have fought the fight, you have stayed the course,
a good race you have run.
You pack once more, for a distant shore,
now following a newer course.
Your life now new, you remember still your love for our Air Force.

That love will not fade, for the commitments you made
Were not for self, or gain. You have given much,
You have kept the faith, and have endured much pain.

Many friends you made will miss you dear
And wish you only blessings.
Your service, though often overlooked, was for
A grateful nation.

You have given much, you have served your time,
And now you go your way.
Those who remain will fill your place but still
To them, you have much to say.

Your tour of duty served with pride has taught you much indeed,
We who remain will do our best to live up to YOUR creed.
You take your place among the GREAT, THE NATIONS HALL OF FAME.
Your sacrifice will never be forgotten, our unit never the same.

We hold you now in great esteem,
your service we all admire.
For now you are in superb company,
The UNITED STATES AIR FORCE RETIRED!