Robert Carl McGaha

The Final Inspection

They stood before their Maker and thus it came to pass.
They hoped their shoes were shining just as brightly as their brass.
“Step forward now Marines,” He said, “how shall I deal with you?
Have you kept all my commandments, to your duty were you true?”

We didn’t like the things we did, but had to make a choice.
For those of us who carried guns, we tried to hear your voice.
We seldom had a place to sleep or had a quiet meal.
We were bound to do our duty, no matter how we feel.

We’ve had to fight on Sundays and at times our talk was rough.
Sometimes our acts were violent, because wars are always tough.
We’ve never missed a cry for help, at times we’ve shed some tears.
We protected little children and tried to calm their fears.

We know we don’t deserve a place among your faithful here.
Their many years of service show how they were more sincere.
So if you have a place for us, it need not be so grand.
We never expected so very much, if not, we’ll understand.

A silence fell all around the Throne, where Saints have often trod
As all Marines wait quietly, for the judgment of their God.
“Enter now Marines,” He said, “you have borne your burdens well
Guard peacefully on these golden streets, You served your time in Hell.”