Gunfire!

Late for my rounds,
By minutes, that’s all.
Might have been there,
There, walking that hall.
 

Sat at Post One
For a little “grab-ass”
“J” asked a question,
Helped the time pass.
 

What was that!
Leapt to my feet.
Ran toward the sound,
What will I meet?
 

Slid on the marble,
Holy disbelief!
Glass everywhere now,
Look for a thief.
 

No one else here,
Cops running outside,
Glass windows and doors,
In pieces inside.
 

Look at the walls!
Pockmarked, by what?
Lead on the floor,
My lord, we’ve been shot!
 

Who’d dare do this?
It’s London not Nam,
Call on my training,
Must remain calm.
 

Beep, beep of sirens,
Calls made to the Brass,
Stay at your post now
Cover your ass.

My orders received,
Stay at your station,
Answer few questions,
Embody your Nation.

World press arrives,
Scotland Yard also came,
Pose for your pictures
Alive for your fame.

John (Jack) Gonder USMC
MSG London England 4/67 – 8/68