Cheltenham Naval Cemetary
In memory of George Whipple Dobbs
As I was going to Cheltenham
That melancholy solemn place
I’ve been to only once before
I stopped in front for meditation
More truly, self confrontation
From that stance strode mirthless paces
Forward with determination
Through the stone and iron gates
To find that place of final rest
To that hallowed brazen casement
Beneath the winter’s frozen ground.
But my timing was all wrong
For at that moment, to my left
I spied a ceremony there
That quickly undermined my goal
Practiced soldiers stood erect
Seven rifles sounded voices
Saddened sons retraced my steps
Moving with morose conviction
Dutiful, respectful, tender.
Holding back the grief unmeasured.
I found no courage left inside me,
Hid my tears from passing fellows
Ran past frosted fields and flowers
To the refuge of my auto.
I know one day I will return
When the hurt has faded dim
When the memories are more worn
When my heart has become stronger
When I can fulfill my task
Of praying for a hero’s soul
To say farewell for loved one lost
Kneeling atop my father’s grave.
Maybe tomorrow, but not today.
Maybe tomorrow, but not today.



