AFTER reading the May 2010 copy of Soldiers magazine, I came across the article "Wartime Poetry." Reading these Soldiers' and Family members' personal poetry, and seeing how they eloquently expressed their feelings, brought tears to my eyes, as I remembered my first glimpse of a fallen Soldier.

The sketch that accompanied the poem, "Hold On," was a revelation of my feelings I could not express.

After tours overseas and being in the medical field as a senior medical sergeant major, I have seen many Soldiers fall, and felt what this Soldier felt as he wrote this poem and sketched this particular drawing. He articulated these feelings through his art in a way I could not.

I want to thank this Soldier, because it has opened feelings that were hidden within me about death. This poem has made me realize that I am not the only person feeling or thinking this way.

In appreciation to this anonymous Soldier and in honor of all our fallen Soldiers, I would like the artist's permission to get this beautiful drawing tattooed on my left upper arm. It would be an honor and a privilege. Nothing brings more joy to me, after 24 years of service, than Soldiers. These men and women are why I wake up each morning.

Once again, I hope this Soldier will come forward and give me the honor of immortalizing his drawing.


<i>Sgt. Maj. David Cruz
Division surgeon sergeant major,
First Army Division East</i>