Self portrait of Kris Johnson at age 18

        To My Sons
         by Timothy H. Johnson (©2004)

                    Since you were young
                    You have learned the ways
                    To be soldiers and  fighters
                    The ways of a warrior

                    The tradition runs deep
                    Your blood is dark blue
                    With honor your family
                    Has gone before you

                    Now your time has come
                    To serve and protect
                    The eyes of the world
                    Will focus on you

                    Only one lesson remains
                    For the training you need
                    To be well versed
                    In the fine art of war

                    You must always remember
                    That life alone is supreme
                    Whether given or taken
                    The choices are yours