During Memorial Day, I thought about all the soldiers that made the ultimate sacrifice and those that continued to carry the scars of war. My neighbor is a Marine veteran who witnessed combat during Desert Storm. He was a huge help to me when I had total hip replacement and has been a terrific neighbor, or should I say, brother to me ever since.

I felt obligated and honored to write the following poem on his behalf.

1-2-3 break.

Some call their co-workers and family friends For me you can call him Jar Head or a Marine In troubled times he is never the second or third But the first on the scene He defends our friendship like the front line of a war Never willing to give up But ready to even the score He’s got a short temper that can be set off with a spark But he has a lot of love and loyalty Hidden in the corner of his big heart He’s my friend I’m proud to say We stand shoulder to shoulder like two whales in a bay Our bond is strong like the Oak in a storm Never breaks but might sway This marine is my best friend I’m proud to say

Dedicated to Jarrett Cooney USMC 167 Marine Corp Air Station Helicopter Marine Light Attack Squadron 167 Combat Gunner