The Heartbeat of a Country
by Tom Roach 

I know a man named Bob who fought for you and me.

This man still stands tall covered in history.

Joined the army as a young man back in 1940.

A well-set young man, played football and was rather sporty.

So what makes the man special I hear the reader ask?

He wanted to help his Country and so set bravely to his task.

Like thousands before him and after, he started rather shy.

Fully understanding at anytime there was a possibility, he could die.

This legend won the military medal for valour in the field.

Inside this mans mind is a history waiting to be revealed.

 Now time has taken its toll and Bob is not so steady.

But inside this mans heart I know he is ever ready.

I am so proud to know this man and his good lady Doreen.

You do not have to be a soldier to understand what I mean.

These men and women still walk this land that is free.

Without them, our Country would have a different history.

So I for one would like to thank them for giving up so much.

They are a part of history that I feel that I can touch.

As a soldier, myself I do fully understand.

The expectations of a nation and the sacrifices they demand.

We still have brave men and women fighting for you and me.

Still in the name of Freedom and of Liberty.

So Bob has done his bit and kept us in the race.

Let us not let his history disappear without a trace.

Bob Murphy MM

Served with the Irish Guards

1940-46