I am a proud wife of the Marine who wrote this. I know so much more about the Marine Corps, the pride, the sarifice, and the price that each man and woman in the Corps pay through his eyes and his gift of writing then I thought I ever would.
And now my pride continues as my youngest son follows in his steps.
James wrote this for my son (his step son) who became a Marine June 14th, 2012 at his EGA ceremony.
May this also touch you in some way……
The Honor of the WallWhat price for freedom? Who pays liberty’s toll? Who bears this debt for justice that gives both heart and soul?
What value for one’s right to choose, to bear arms as citizens; or even our flag misuse?
This speech so-called free; where fool’s venom ranks in reason’s hall, is paid with precious blood from those who stand upon the wall.
A special few, honed to bear freedom’s strife; but not with gold or coin they learn; it has been levied with their life.
Their hearts submit to Always, their bond with Faithfull’s call, to guard our nation’s freedom, to guard upon the wall.
Privilege waits for service pledge, dreams wrapped in hope and faith; they know their lives are counted toll, to keep our nation safe.
Their journey bears no riches, nor in earthly gold befalls; their wealth is earned in honor, to defend upon the wall.
Keep stalwart hearts young warriors, many have gone before; who fought and bled like journey; to wear the title of the Corps.
It is Marines, who’ve earned the honor of freedom’s bloody call. Their colors have never fallen, when they have fought upon the wall.
Many have walked this post, blood’s value shed for debt received; but now they don civilian’s wear, new orders, they stand relieved.
The new guard, new warriors being chiseled and honed for nation’s call; be assured and sleep well my friends, new Marines will walk upon the wall.
By James E. Hopkins, 2012
USMC Chief Warrant Officer 4 (Retired)