I AM A VETERAN

By Chaplain (COL) Paul Swerdlow   (USA Retired

I shivered that cold winter in Valley Forge And rejoiced at the glorious surrender at Yorktown. I wept as the flames engulfed Washington And said "Never again." I wore blue and I bled red. I wore gray and I bled red. The blood I spilled was to reunite a nation Of the people, by the people and for the people. I am a veteran.

I was at Little Big Horn and I prayed; I was at Wounded Knee and I prayed. I prayed that one-day the old Americans And the new Americans would be one people. I was there to charge up the hill at San Juan; Knowing that my country was emerging beyond its borders. I was prepared to make the world safe for democracy. Young and idealistic, I came to France To turn back the hordes in this war to end all wars. I am a veteran.

It was with disbelief that I became A part of the day that will live in infamy. Once more I said goodbye to those I loved to protect my country. Across the vast desert I met the enemy. I met him on island after island. I kept my promise to return. I met him on the beaches of Normandy. I repelled him from the gates of Bastogne. I freed thousands from the shadow of death. I am a veteran.

A small nation cried out for help And I came because others had been there for me. A nation was saved. Ask not what your country can do for you.  Ask what you can do for your country. Inspired by these words, I responded with courage and bravery  In a war that was hot and a war that was cold.  I am a veteran. 

From Ground Zero to the Pentagon to the fields of Pennsylvania,  I saw the carnage and heard the cries. At that moment, I pledged my life, my property and my sacred honor Until there will be peace and freedom on earth For everyone, everywhere. I am a veteran.

                       Military photos from some of our Supervisors

 Frank Pallares, Retired SDPO (Right, Specialist 4, Military Police,1977)        Ernesto Sandoval, SDPO (Left, Tank Commander, age 19)