“Soldier” by George L. Skypeck
I had heard that this poem written by Vietnam disabled veteran George L. Skypeck (who after active duty, went back to earn a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from University of Massachusetts) is one of the most displayed poems among various museums and monuments not just in the US but across the world.
Saw it for the first time in Columbus airport, Ohio.
The words are:
“I was that which others did not
want to be.
I went where others feared to go,
and did what others failed to do.
I asked nothing from those who gave
nothing, and reluctantly accepted the
thought of eternal loneliness …
should I fail.
I have seen the face of terror; felt
the stinging cold of fear; and enjoyed
the sweet taste of a moment’s love.
I have cried, pained, and hoped …
but most of all, I have lived times others
would say were best forgotten.
At least someday I will be able to say
that I was proud of what I was … a soldier.”
-George L. Skypeck
How is George? Is he still alive and kickin?
ALWAYS LOVE THIS POEM.
mY NON-PROFIT org. would like to use it to promote our cause to assist youth & vets.
How would I get permission to use it?
I’m his granddaughter and he’s doing well. He’s so talented and it’s heartwarming to see others appreciate his work. ☺️✌
Very happy he is doing well,I am his cousin Robert,my oldest brother Joseph a Marine is in a home.They would come from Holyoke to visit my dad..God Bless them Skypecks.I have three sons to carry the last name..Robert
It is so great to see so many of his family members on this post. A chance observation at an airport has led me to get to connected to some of George’s family members. Feels great!
My 1st husband Command Sergeant Major Danny Cline(deceased/agent orange 2004) used this poem at a graduation
C1/19 Ft. SilL, OK. 2/28/1991. Just found a copy of his speech. Still intensely profound 38 years later.
AS an young NCO I receive a hand writing copy ( A Soldier ) in 1976 from Gen Willard Latham at Fort Benning Ga. I Had copies printed and for the last 20 years I present one to Soldier from Fort Carson Colorado to Maine. There is something about that poem that lift you up and if you read it more than one time the tears flow.
That is such a fascinating story, Arelius!