Father and Son

It was not a surprise to me when you signed up to join the Guard. Just wish you did not do it when I had been off ship. Guess that was partly my fault for being in battle on your birthday. I was still proud of you though to see you in the middle of your RIP detail, even if it was something I never did. I was glad I had taught you as well as I had. You never did notice me in the rafters watching over you I think. Although sometimes I like to think that when you looked to the ceiling you knew I was there.

Your graduation I don't think anyone cheered any louder than I did, even if the other guards looked at me in shock. You standing proudly next to your squad mates as the commissar and colonel gave you your pins.

I grew afraid as I saw your regiment was to be deployed on planet, knowing that I would be half a planet away and unable to protect you. The fighting was harsh against the foul greenskins. Bet they were nothing like the stories I told you though. I wish I had been a bit more honest now, maybe you would have chosen differently.

I stare at your helmet now son, in the graveyard filled with thousands of dead, the wails of artillery heard in the distance as the battle rages on. All I can do is hold back my tears, thanking that no one can see my face behind my helmet.

They have your name here, along with a blessing for what you have done. It does not tell the true story though, it does nothing to show what you were. That little boy begging for a story at my knee. It does not show that you are my son.