The following is a poem written in 1943 by my wife’s uncle, Herman Williamson, of Dalton while serving in the Army in World War II. He was stationed in New Guinea. I believe it tells the story of a soldier’s true thoughts while in battle. Hope you enjoy the poem.

“My thoughts on tonight”

Raindrops pattering on the tentage

Thunder rumbling up above,

Weary soldiers deep in slumber

Dreaming of the things they love.

Whispering winds out in the jungle

Sound a note of sweet refrain

With my thoughts a soul companion,

Thoughts of home and peace again.

Far beyond the dark horizon

Lies the homeland that I love.

Filled with grandeur, endless beauty,

Richest blessings from above.

It is there my thoughts are always

Thoughts of mother, father, home.

And a love that is unending,

Fill their hearts while I am gone.

I can see them in their sorrow

Humbly bowed in fervent prayer.

Praying while I’m in the battle

“God protect him over there”.

A vacant chair before the fireside

Tells the story of their pain.

Longing faces at the window,

Awaiting my return again.

Then when freedom spans the nations

Horrors of the war are gone,

Should good fortune smile upon me,

Then I’ll wind my way back home.

Grant this wish, we pray Our Father,

That the war will soon be o’er.

Take me to my loved ones waiting,

Let us live in peace once more.

Roger Sherrill lives in Ringgold. He can be reached by email at halojumper@charter.net or by phone at 706-937-3918