Soldier in Arms...

Amidst the streets of Belfast

the lonely soldier walks,

carrying powerful weapons

that end all the talk.

Gliding along the pavement

eyes wide with fear,

feeling for the bullet

that will end their short career.

Playing follow the leader

mates in staggered file,

waiting,hoping,praying,

today, no death so vile.

Eyes burning with sweat

tummies churning round and round,

waiting for the rifles crack

poised and ready to hit the ground.

Weapons cocked, on safety

walking a slow slow pace,

people stop and stare

with ne'er a smiling face.

They do not ask to die

nor face the angry ones,

they want to walk in peaceful streets

without powerful guns.

These poor boy's visit to Ireland

could never be a friendly one,

asked to keep the peace

between the Irish sons.

1979