G. I. Candy

Submitted by Ron Nash

Monsoons

sodden tiger-fatigues

and boots,

miserable respite

three days,

rest and relaxation.

The village secure,

simmering tubs,

cigars, alcohol,

and cannabis

muddled thoughts of dying.

Girl-son’s

olive skin, smooth

silky words,

amorous moments,

Quiescence

First love?

And all the children came…

Warm and friendly,

muddy faces,

gentle eyes

GI has candy…?

One child stepped forward

securing the soldiers leg,

sealing their fate.

Smiling back,

reaching for the rucksack

and candy,

unaware…

The jeep ran red,

flesh-fragmenting-bone,

nothing left

of the boy-man.

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