I am an American Soldier

by Alondra Rios
(United States)

I am an American Soldier,
I gave up my freedom to protect yours.
Even though it may not seem like much,
for my family it is a huge challenge and sacrifice.
You can see my mother waking up at the crack of dawn,
to pray for her daughter to return home soon.
My father asking God to bring her little princess back.
Why do you do it? I get asked, You weren't forced to do it you know?
I do it so that I know my family is safe,
so that I know that they're safe.
I do it because my heart beats red, white, and blue.
My biggest wish is to keep my family safe.
My family's biggest wish,
to have me return home safely.
But if I'm not able to return home,
please take that folded flag and hold it with pride.
I've done my best.
After all,
I am an American Soldier.