When time runs out

As people gathered across the country to remember the start of the Battle of the Somme 100 years ago; here in Newbury John, a local poet, read this poem -

When time runs out with one last breath,
a million martyrs face their death.
One million sigh with firm intent, one choir of collective quiet lament:
"What twist of fate has brought us here, to grasp this stomach churning fear? To fight the evil cause of those who have no God above themselves?"
These thoughts now echo through their minds
of a million faces now resigned.
Each khaki shoulder bound together to shield a Generals unmarked leather.
Small crosses held,
Last letters read,
Hope discharged while prayers are pledged.
As time runs out  the tears are shed,
As two million boots march to the edge.
An hour of wait,
While seconds pass,
Then comes that searing whistle blast.
One million hearts now beating fast,
In a race to see who's beating last.
When gunfire drowns one final shout
"May luck be with us!!! ....
....when time runs out."


Thank you to John for not only posing for his photo but also letting me have a copy of his poems.