MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.
By Tom Zart 
 

Reverend King, one of the most influential black leaders
To ever march for civil rights and justice
Was born to a minister and a teacher of school.
Educated to where he earned his PH.D.
Becoming a pastor marching against what was unfair and cruel.

 
Leading a boycott to protest bus segregation
He gained national prominence in 1955 and 56.
As he preached and marched for freedom for all
He was jailed, threatened, spat on, and beaten
As for peaceful demonstration he would call.


Marching to Washington, D.C.
In 1963 he was one of the leaders of faith
Voicing concern for the plight of the poor.
Soon there after, he was killed by a sniper
In Memphis, supporting workers rights and more


King dedicated one of his books to his children
Praising God and praying for mankind’s future
With words for all to prayerfully remember.
To be judged, not by color, but by character
Shunning violence never to surrender.

Dr. King will be remembered down through history 
As a man whose mission in life was the enrichment of others.
"A Soldier For The Lord" with goodness of heart
Risking everything for man’s freedom and equality. 
From his legacy of self-sacrifice we must refuse to part.

NEVER BE AFRAID TO BE PROUD of AMERICA

 
America, the abundant, the place I was born 
I'll cherish till the day I die.
Where the bones of past heroes lie buried in the ground 
Who loved her the same as I.

 
Her mountains are so tall they reach for the sky;
With prairies where the green grasses grow.
There's billions of trees where wild birds nest
With creatures that flourish below.

 
That blue gold called water with which we are blessed
As raindrops or crystallized snow;
Changes to rivers and fresh water lakes
While the winds of our seasons blow.

 
There's the haunt of a whistle from a lonely freight train 
Racing on ribbons of steel
With the harvest of farms and from the factories 
Balanced in a box on a wheel.

 
Some cities have buildings a hundred stories tall, 
Structures of concrete, glass and steel.
A statue in a harbor, a present from France, 
Describes how, inside, we feel.

 
That flag on the moon with red and white stripes
Proves America’s dreams come true.
A country of heroes who line up to protect
The past, the present and the few.

 
We’ll defeat terrorism as it should be fought
Never letting Satan’s horde chase us to our door.
Safeguarding our borders and system of life
As our forefathers sacrificed before.

 
Never be afraid to be proud of America
And march with the brave, faithful and just.
Refusing to summit to the will of our enemies
Standing firm to preserve what we trust.


AMERICAN POLICEMEN

Misdeeds were put here as a test for mankind
And to many race down the wrong path.
Greed, hate, lust and perversion are satin’s tools
In his workshops of corruption and wrath.

Rape, robbery, murder, and assault
Are committed by the dishonest night and day.
Thank God for those who line up to protect
The principles of justice, honor and fair play.

Where would we be without valiant policemen
Who patrol our neighborhoods and streets?
Risking their life and limb on the line
Arresting thieves, killers, drug dealers, 
perverts and cheats.

To many officers become victims of divorce
Products of occupational danger and strain.
Never knowing when they say good by
If it’s their day to be crippled or slain.

It takes a brave soul to become a good cop
Risking everything for little praise and pay.
It’s true that some may abuse their badge
But for the majority we gratefully pray.



ALEXANDER THE GREAT

King Philip his father engaged a new teacher
When Alexander turned thirteen.
Aristotle the greatest mind of his time
Gave Alexander his taste for the unforeseen.

Alexander dreamed of a one world empire
Held together by one king and tradition.
After his father was murdered by rivals
He ruled in his place with conviction.

Philip’s death caused conquered kingdoms to rebel
And for next two years Alexander forced them to concede.
The huge Persian Empire of King Darius III
Posed the greatest threat to Greeks and their creed.

The Persian cavalry numbered over forty thousand
Plus one million foot soldiers with weapons and shield.
Alexander’s  troops numbered thirty thousand on the ground
Along side five thousand horsemen who dominated the field.

Alexander practiced many new methods of  war
One of his most effective was called the siege train.
Several high towers would be rolled up to city walls on wheels
From which defenders were overwhelmed and slain.

He developed mechanical machines of death
Catapults, which hurled fifty pound stones.
Large arrows and burning balls of  fire
Smashing walls, buildings and bones.

Soon Alexander fulfilled his prophecy
Sitting on the golden throne of Persian kings.
Possessing great treasures from conquered lands
Though his greatest need was conquest not things.

Alexander, king of Asia, would not be satisfied
His ambition and ego denied him rest.
He decided to march his armies to India
Putting the Rajahs armies and elephants to test.

The huge beasts, which were unknown in Europe
Frightened Alexander’s men at the start.
In spite of their fear disciplined prevailed
As Greek spears tore holes in their heart.

Exhausted by years of hardship and battle.
His men refused to go on and Alexander gave in.
Disease, thirst, and hunger were their constant companions
From the time they left Greece till they were home again.

Alexander was physically and emotionally sick
To the point of becoming critically ill.
He died in Babylon at thirty-two
King of prophecies he pledged to fulfill.



AS THE MADNESS OF WAR TELLS ITS STORY

Goodness must overrule absolute evil
Though there’s nothing worse than war.
Sometimes we have no alternative option
Except to kill or be killed as before.

The best of plans can go amiss
With uncertainties till the first shots are fired.
As generals plot their path toward victory
It’s up to the wounded, the fallen and tired.

It’s not how strong or athletic you are
That decides who is blessed to return.
Those who survive are a product of luck,
And our prayers and support they’ve earned.

War seems to peel the veneer off society
Exposing our villain within.
A crazy obsession to rule over others
By death, destruction and sin.

The mayhem of conflict is a ongoing scourge
Robbing man from intended glory.
The hinge of history swings in all directions
As the madness of war tells its story.


SENSATIONS

From the moment we’re born until our death
We desire the sensations of earth.
Our quest for happiness is a ongoing hunt
For dedication, affection and worth.

We learn to walk and how to talk
As the grown ups show us the way.
Protected by our family’s care
We learn how to love, work and play.

Far to soon as we look in the mirror
We notice youth has slipped away.
We ponder the past and our future
As we squeeze what we can from the day.

Once we’re aware of our less time left
Most tend to make amends for the past.
We love others more and ourselves less
As the sensations of life are cast.

In life, we fail despite wealth and prestige,
If no one cries at our passing.
We must strive to become irreplaceable
So the memory of our love is lasting.


THE BOXER

My opponent’s huge but his brain is small
I’ll bust his chin and watch him fall.
He’ll greet the mat and moan and groan
As I stand in victory, he’ll lie alone.

Boxing is a game of sport
Loved by all both tall and short.
Cheers and shouts shall fill the air
Far more than a circus or fair.

I’ll jump the ropes and respond to the bell .
Engage in combat and fight like hell .
As the punishment begins, behold the test.
Soon the fans will know, "Who’s Best".

FELLOW AMERICANS

Will we battle terrorism as it should be fought
Or run away and let evil doers chase us to our door?
Will we protect our freedom and system of life
As our fathers and grandfathers sacrificed before?

Will we secure our borders against illegal entry
Or let our economy and security be destroyed?
Will we finally stop runaway wasteful spending
By leaders who are self-serving and void?

Will we continue to pledge our help to the less fortunate
Who suffer from war, hunger and disease?
Will we preserve our heritage and our future
From those who wish to bring liberty to its knees?

Never be afraid to be proud of America
And march with the thankful, honorable and just.
Never surrender our freedom of choice
Standing firm for what we believe and trust .


HONOR

Honor, morality, faith and integrity
Are the glue which holds society in place.
Pornography, hate, jealousy and greed
Cause man to be plagued by disgrace.

Night and day we’re bombarded by headlines
Which seem to give evil added time.
Always at war killing one another
In our world full of violance and crime.

Be thankful for the upright among us
Who desire to remain true to God’s laws.
Repentant when wrong and change their ways
Saving the rest of us despite our flaws.

Honor, morality, faith and integrity
Are what life’s heroes are made of.
Defending what’s right; confronting what’s wrong
Propelled by achievement and love.


MOMENTARY COURAGE

Momentary courage helps preserve mankind
When our angel within is allowed to rise.
Men, women, children, kings and presidents
Are blessed by deeds not falsehoods and lies.

Be it soldier, fireman, policeman or physician
All have known the rush of courage.
To many among us think just of our self
In our world  full of crime and discourage.

Thank God for the extraordinary
Who arrive by birth in every race.
Committing what’s right to preserve what’s true
Despite, the agents of hate and disgrace.

Washington, Lincoln, Roosevelt and Kennedy,
Truman, Bill Clinton and George Bush too.
Had their moments of momentary courage
And the rest is up to me and you.


DAVID AND GOLIATH


David, the shepherd, a tender of sheep, 
Would pray to his God before he would sleep.
One day he awoke to the roar of beasts;
A bear and a lion in search of a feast.
David slew both with his knife and his hand,
Though still just a boy and not yet a man.
The Lord's love for David was proven once again,

When he challenged the champion of the Philistine men.
Goliath’s beastly fingers and hideous toes,
Made David more selective with the stones that he chose.
One for the giant, he knew he would slay,
Four more for his brothers who were laughing that day.

The giant told David, "I'll tear you apart;
The birds and the animals shall feast on your heart."
David yelled back, "I’ll soon see you dead,
And when I’m through I’ll cut off your head!"

The worst of all men, drew high with his arm,
Came forth to David to do him great harm.
The youth jumped ahead just as quick as a lynx; 
A stone from his sling popped the giant where he thinks.

Blood and bone spewed forth as that devil fell down; 
A thousand pound soldier lie dead on the ground.
With Goliath’s own sword, David chopped off his head, 
Then took it to Jerusalem, to prove that he was dead.


GENERAL WASHINGTON 


Once in command, he boxed in the British 
At Boston where he captured Dorchester Heights, 
Overlooking the Brits at his mercy 
As his men took aim with their cannon sites. 

The British commander had but one choice, 
To sail to New York to renew the fight. 
Where the English had much greater forces, 
Who soon chased Washington's men in full flight. 

They continued on to Pennsylvania 
After crossing the Hudson in retreat, 
With the British forces in hot pursuit 
It looked as though George was doomed to defeat. 

When winter seemed to have stopped the fighting 
That's when Washington crossed the Delaware. 
On that Christmas night he captured Trenton 
Where Hessians were surprised and unaware. 

He whipped the British at Princeton, 
Where in victory his men began to sing. 
Washington then wintered at Morristown, 
Training his troops for the combat of spring. 

Washington fought bravely at Brandywine 
And again at a place called Germantown, 
But the British were the victorious ones 
As the dead of both sides covered the ground. 

Americans were blessed early that spring, 
When the French entered the war on their side. 
Though most suffered frostbite at Valley Forge, 
With the help of the French they marched in stride. 

The battles raged on, in the North and South 
As the King’s soldiers laid waste to the land. 
Washington himself was in great despair, 
Pleading for aid for his weakened command. 

His prayers were answered by 5000 troops, 
And a French fleet who took Chesapeake Bay. 
They bottled up Cornwallis at Yorktown, 
Who surrendered to victory drums at play. 

Yorktown was really the end of the war 
Though not many quite realized that fact yet. 
But the British soon grew tired of the fight 
And the terms for its end were signed and set. 

Washington yearned to retire at home, 
But his country chose him first president. 
Cheering crowds waved flags of love and support, 
For they believed that "he," by God, was sent. 



THE  AMERICAN CIVIL WAR 


In 1860 life was good, 
Till its simpleness ceased one day. 
The North wished to save the Union 
While the South chose to break away. 

America was torn apart 
As six hundred thousand died. 
Throughout four years of total war, 
Women without husbands cried. 

The sad fact of the Civil War 
Is what was left at its end. 
Too many times, men’s evil acts 
Destroyed both foe and friend. 

The problem was, once it began, 
There was no peace or compromise. 
Total victory must be proclaimed 
Before rage would leave men’s eyes. 

Destroy all that helps the enemy, 
Was the cry of either side. 
Anything to obtain victory, 
As death on horseback did ride. 

Black men dressed in old uniforms 
Became the Union’s reserve. 
They fought and died for their freedom 
And their rights they earned and deserve. 

Lifestyles would forever change 
For all who survived the war. 
It had ended as it began, 
With sadness, misery and more. 

Both sides prayed to the same God, 
And spoke words from the Bible. 
The prayers of both were not answered, 
For all involved were liable. 



THE KANSAS FRONTIER 


Coronado, in his search to find gold for Spain, 
Was the first European on the green Kansas plane. 
Explorers and traders were arriving from France. 
They saw the buffalo and the Indians who danced. 

At the mouth of the Kaw were campfires in the dark; 
Two men by the river named Lewis and Clark. 
Large numbers of Indians, forced out from the East, 
Resettled to Kansas where the buffalo feast. 

So, many a cowboy decided to stay, 
It wasn’t very long and most Indians were forced away. 
When Missouri joined the Union; the slave states equaled the free. 
Which way would Kansas vote, congress was anxious to see? 

The Heart-Landers were bleeding; their towns were on fire; 
As raiders from the slave states tried to force their desire. 
The settlement of Lawrence was sacked by a mob, 
In revenge came John Brown, who would murder and rob. 

Kansas joined the Union as the Civil War began. 
After four long years of tragedy, many women lost their man. 
Cattle trails met the railroads as they pushed across the state. 
Farmers planted corn and wheat as the buffalo awaited their fate. 

Those frontier days have long since gone, though the sunflower is still here; 
My childhood home of Kansas where the buffalo roam with the deer. 



BLACK POWDER BRIDGE 


A courier rider hands his papers to me; 
They are instructions from Robert E. Lee. 
I am advised now is the time, 
To stop the troop movement on the Rock Island line. 

I muster my men and they load up the boats, 
We powder our pistols and darken our coats. 
Traveling the currents, the sun slips from sight, 
As brave men with a purpose have gathered to fight. 

We capture a bridge before the moonrise, 
The Yankees who are here shall soon feed the flies. 
The evil of war feeds on my brain 
As I light the fuse to destroy a train. 

Above us a trestle of timber and tar 
As we pull our oars for a willowed sandbar. 
From the banks of the river; we watch it approach; 
There’s shadows of soldiers, in the windows of a coach. 

With a burst of bright yellow and a roar in my ear, 
I hear them scream as they ’re falling in fear. 
The river is boiling in steam, steel and stems, 
Back home their families shall soon sing funeral hymns. 

The one lone survivor was a red stallion stud, 
I lassoed his neck, and freed him from the mud. 
As I ride in his saddle beneath the stars that shine, 
I pray for forgiveness and some peace of mind. 

War is a lesson we ‘re eager to learn 
When man has that fever to murder and burn. 
Lord, please forgive me for what I have done, 
For all those I’ve silenced were some mother’s son. 



THE FEVER OF FEAR 


Cannons are bursting hot metal from the ground. 
Soldiers are looting and burning our town. 
The fever of fear rushes through my veins, 
As too many Bluecoats jump from troop trains. 

Smoke from hot barrels is swirling around, 
As four thousand muskets volley their sound. 
All of my comrades have stopped a lead ball; 
Most cry out, then stumble and fall. 

Even the young lad who carried our flag, 
Now he lies dead as he clings to that rag. 
Wagons with the wounded trail blood on the ground, 
Death and destruction are easily found. 

The Generals are crying ’cause they can’t stand defeat; 
But it’s always the soldier who dies on his feet. 
Horse hooves are pounding on a bridge made of boards, 
As the sunlight reflects from the blades of their swords. 

Quickly I hide out in the roots of a tree, 
Where the dirt has eroded and there’s just room for me. 
After dark I sneak out with the cover of fog, 
Then float down the river, as I cling to a log. 

Songs of their victory, ring out through the night, 
While from the cold, muddy water, I see their firelight. 
It makes me remember my old country church, 
Where the preacher spoke God’s word from his holy perch. 

That the seed of all conflict began in a cave; 
When man, like the wild wolf had to prove he was brave. 


THUNDER IN THE GROUND 


Cannons are bellowing from a ridge far away. 
The battle lines are forming and there’s little time to pray. 
Musket balls are pelting like hailstones from the sky; 
I’m so full of fear cause I don ’t want to die. 

From beyond yonder hill comes a terrifying sound, 
It’s the music of the buglers and there’s thunder in the ground. 
The fast-riding troopers have all drawn out their swords. 
They ’re shouting and screaming as they charge up the gorge. 

It’s hard to believe how many make it through; 
As they’re hacking and shooting at the boys dressed in blue. 
Then come the soldier men who run upon their feet, 
Every time I drop one, my heart skips a beat. 

There’s a storm on the ground made of death, dust and smoke. 
My throat is so dry, I can ’t help but choke. 
The fury of the battle is bound to settle down, 
When most of the fighters lie dead on the ground. 

After dark, the stretcher-bearers are afraid to search around. 
The wild hogs eat the wounded and I can ’t stand the sound. 
Come dawn, we dig ditches for all the brave, lifeless men. 
Then quote words from our Bible praying heaven lets them in. 


SLAVERY 


When you chain the neck of a slave, 
The other end fastens to you. 
Your heart and soul become corrupt, 
And all which is evil you’ll do. 

No government shall exist for long, 
Who’s people are not really free. 
Though around the world there are those, 
Who stay blind to how life should be. 

Any who must enslave others, 
Will dwell in their own living hell 
After death, they’ll join their master, 
In that place from heaven he fell. 

But till then we’ll fight and resist 
Making them put their chains away. 
And those of us who may die first, 
From heaven shall watch and pray 


BROTHER AGAINST BROTHER 


In the course of becoming officers 
The young men of West Point bonded like brothers. 
Till roomers of Civil War transformed friend to foe, 
As many cadets chose to serve others. 

Fifty-five of sixty major battles fought, 
Were lead by graduates of the long gray line. 
Yankees and Rebels ravaged one another, 
For to kill and plunder were virtues of the time. 

Over six hundred thousand soldiers were consumed, 
Not counting multitudes of population. 
Cities, farms and the countryside were laid to waste, 
Before our Union was restored to a nation. 


THE LITTLEST SOLDIER 


Nine year old Johnny Clem who stood just four feet tall, 
Ran away from Ohio to answer his country’s call. 

He joined up with the Union and became a drummer boy, 
Soon to prove the gun he wore was far more than a toy. 

Armed with a sawed-off musket, cut down to just fit him, 
He shot a Rebel horseman who tried to do him in. 

Awarded his sergeant’s stripes and the silver medal, 
His comrades offered him hot coffee from their kettle. 

The newspapers of the North, gladly published his story, 
Telling of the nine year old who earned his country’s glory. 


THE BATTLE 

The moon is sky high 
And perfectly round 
As it highlights the beauty 
Of disputed ground. 

Life is a journey 
Where the passage is free. 
After, there’s judgment, 
By the living and Thee. 

Tomorrow’s carnage, 
We’ll survive if we can. 
Death and dismemberment 
By the hand of man. 

Some will stumble 
With absence of breath. 
While others charge 
Into the face of death. 

We’ll race toward the battle 
And pray for the best, 
Hoping somehow 
We pass God’s test. 


BUGLES 

Their red and blue, ragtag flag stood out, 
Against their dust covered uniforms of gray. 
Savagely we fought to kill our enemy, 
As the battle raged on in the heat of the day 

Volley after volley we put forth our blaze, 
With thousands of led balls snapping flesh and bone. 
Blistering sweat rolled down every face, 
As the tunes of war by bugles were blown. 

There was a clanking sound of ramrods in barrels, 
As each new minieball was loaded and fired. 
Some shot aimlessly into the smoke, 
While others took aim at the worn and tired. 

Bullets were popping like the fourth of July, S 
Yet our enemy kept surging ahead. 
All at once they broke and ran off in groups, 
Scattering as for the forest they fled. 

From behind the protection of a stacked-stone wall, 
The victorious cheered or just sat starring, 
At all the bodies of friend and foe 
While for the wounded the surgeons were caring. 

Soon the war was over and I survived, 
Despite it’s brutality on trampled ground. 
From boy to man I was transformed, 
Though, still in the night I hear its sound. 


THE HINGE OF HISTORY 


The hinge of history swings in all directions 
As the happenings of the past are written down. 
Out of all that has occurred since man’s beginnings, 
Less has been recorded than waits to be found. 

Babylonians kept chronicles of history, 
Hebrews wrote the past as a dramatic story. 
Greeks had no faith in the future at all, 
Believing mans repeated errors doom his glory. 

Christians added a new dimension to history, 
Looking forward to Christ’s return to earth. 
An on going drama involving man and God, 
Believing all are created of equal worth. 

Some have asked why must we study history; 
It just encourages us to live in the past. 
When we forget history we repeat its mistakes, 
As the outcome of humanity is cast. 



Sacrifice, Transformation, And Unrestricted Warfare


The Japanese hadn't lost a war since 1598
Each man carried 400 rounds of ammunition
(twice as many as an American infantryman)
With five days’ rations and fearless determination.

The men in the badly wrapped brown uniforms
Since their early childhood had been taught
That to die for the emperor and one’s country
Was the greatest of all glories to be sought.

Moreover, the hardware backing them was awesome
As sharpshooters they were accurate up to a thousand yards and more.
Their ships were faster, their guns bigger, Their torpedoes better,
And their planes matchless in quality, aerobatics and score.

Only by sacrifice, transformation, and unrestricted warfare
Was America able to overcome and prevail.
Again America must stand firm to survive
As we face a new monster from Hell



KOREA 1950


UN soldiers fought and were forced to retreat
Behind sandbags protected by barbwire hoops.
Many GI's died as they held off attacks,
By 810,000 Communist troops.

Our guys used phosphorus, flame-throwers and napalm,
For without these weapons they could not survive.
The Communist charges led by buglers,
Till the UN could start it's offensive drive.

On the battlefield of death and misery
Many froze with their hands still stuck to their guns.
While others hobbled with their boots wrapped in rags,
City boys, farmers, students, fathers and sons.

With a million and a half dead or wounded,
Both sides singed a truce before generals involved.
July 27th, 1953,
And though thousands were orphaned, nothing was solved.



BULLETS AND BARBWIRE


We awoke to the crack of rifle fire, 
With mortar rounds hitting the ground near by.
The flying shrapnel was absorbed by sand bags, 
Which saved lots of us who wished not to die.

The hot spent shell casings fell to the ground 
As the VC charged our fortified hill.
We killed so many the stench made us sick,
While we fought to live and not for a thrill.

Barbwire, bullets and clay-mores took their toll 
As red and green tracers lit up the sky.
Before long I was the last GI left, 
When napalm caused my enemy to fry.

Fleeing the sound of our choppers gunfire
The enemy retreated to the caves and trees.
Then I cried, "thank you " to heaven above,
As I checked out my buddies on my knees.

Somehow I managed to survive the day 
Though many I've served with names I have read 
Carved in the shinny black stone of The Wall 
Are my comrades of war, among the dead.



SOLDIER IN THE RAIN


I’m just a soldier who stands in the rain; 
My memories of home are what keep me sane.

Back home is a land of milk and honey, 
Ruled by lust and love of money.

But, what can I say, when I serve her true, 
For I volunteered to see this war through.
Now, that I’m here, it's hard to believe,
We're just the victims of those who deceive.

As darkness falls on the rice fields of Nam 
Scared men with rifles walk the shadows of the calm.
It's thousands of miles to the steps of my church, 
With its stained glass, steeples and lost souls who search.

Off in the distance I see an arc light,
Bombs being dropped on children at night.
I've seen that evil they call the "yellow rain,"
And how life withers when it's sprayed by a plane.

All of my buddies have been taken away, 
No more touch football will they ever play.
Zipped in their body bags for the long trip home,
Are some of the bravest, I've ever known.

War is a hell, devised by man,
There's death in the sea, the sky and the land.
Lord, I can’t help but wish I were home,
Back with my love, whom I hope is alone?



AMERICA


America, the beautiful, the place I was born, 
I'll cherish till the day I die.
Where the bones of past heroes 
Lie buried in the ground, 
Who loved her the same as I.

Her mountains are so tall 
They reach for the sky;
With prairies where the green grasses grow.
There's billions of trees where wild birds nest,
With creatures that flourish below.

That blue gold called water 
With which we are blessed,
As raindrops or crystallized snow;
Changes to rivers and fresh water lakes
While the winds of our seasons blow.

There's the haunt of a whistle 
From a lonely freight train 
Racing on ribbons of steel,
With the harvest of farms and from the factories 
Balanced in a box on a wheel.

Some cities have buildings 
A hundred stories tall, 
Concrete, glass and steel.
A statue in a harbor, a present from France, 
Describes how, inside, we feel.

That flag on the moon 
With red and white stripes
Proves our dreams come true!
America has the freedom of choice 
To strive for those things we must do!


THE PRESIDENCY


Those who wish to be President 
Must practice what they preach. 
For their people need inspiring 
To believe what they teach.

Take heed therefore, unto yourselves, 
You overseers of the flock
Or the voters shall cast you out, 
For your futures are not of rock.

Life may place you in deep waters, 
Though it doesn't wish you to drown.
It's your past record that lets us know,
Who you are as you smile or frown.

If you wish to be remembered, 
From the truth you must never part.
Power corrupts the best of us, 
When we stop listening to our heart.


POLITICIANS


Most of the time as a politician stands up, 
Along with the truth, their brain sits down.
Promising anything and everything to anyone, 
While posing to the public, to be on common ground.

The higher the office the greater the corruption, 
As candidates compete for those dead presidents of green.
While we're taxed to death to fund their pork 
Our cost for everything has become obscene.

Thank God there are some better than most,
Not squeaky clean, but more honest than others.
Regardless of party, they deserve our vote,
For they share our thoughts like sisters and brothers.

Politicians who wish to be revered by history, 
Must earn their fame by living the truth. 

Any who continue to mislead and deceive, 
Must be shunned by the voter at the booth.


 
THE ALAMO


The leaves of the cottonwoods hung motionless
As outside the walls Santa Anna’s horde closed in.
A small band of Texans watched and waited
Preoccupied by combat and how life would end.

The battle raged from building to building
Till the old mission’s chapel was the last to fall.
Over 180 Texans died fighting to the man
Never to yield, surrender or crawl.

Six weeks later Sam Houston rallied his forces
With "Remember the Alamo as their battle cry.
Attacking and defeating Santa Anna’s army
To win independence for Texas or die.

The Spanish  word for "cottonwood" is "Alamo"
The long time popular name for the mission.
Today the stout-walled old chapel still stands
Preserved as a shrine of sacrifice and tradition.



SO DEAR TO MY HEART


So dear to my heart are my loved ones at home
As I toss and I turn in my bunk all alone.
Everyday I see death, hate, and corruption
Combat is God’s proof of man’s malfunction

For family, comrades, and myself I pray
To my love with this poem I wish to convey.
I knew I loved you though never how much
Till by war, I’m forced beyond your touch.

Where violence thrives, there’s the stench of death
With the taste of fear on every breath.
Who shall prevail, who shall die
As the sadistic kill beneath God’s sky.

Baghdad has become man’s highway to hell
Where the hearts of darkness are alive and well,
I count each day till it’s time to come home 
And be with my love and never alone.

Love You
Your Marine




WHERE WARS ARE WON OR LOST


Wars are waged by older men
In council rooms in countries apart.
Who call for greater firepower
And troops for the battle chart.

While out among the shattered flesh
The dreams of all have turned gray.
So young and determined their faces were
Till on the battlefield they lay.

Unable to overcome their pride
The elders cast their vote.
For this or that or something else
As the thunder of war sounds its note.

Wherever wars are won or lost
The soldiers fall like toys.
Down through history it remains the same
Most who pass are hardly more than boys.



CHRISTMAS


Husbands with ladders hang lights on their home,
As all who have no one feel sad and alone.
The churches are full of the faithful that sing,
For the birth of our Lord, is a spiritual thing.

The sound of Christmas sweetly fills the air,
While frantic shoppers hustle from here to there.
The windows of storefronts at this time of year, 
Reflect all their wonders as Christmas draws near.

Little ones stand looking with their nose pressed to glass, 
As model trains on display come speeding past.
The path to Santa is lined with girls and boys,
With a list in their heart of their favorite toys.

The stores shelves are crammed with dolls that crawl or walk,
Games, cars, trucks, planes and stuffed toys that sing or talk.
The miracle of Christmas comes once a year,
When all that we love seems more precious and dear.



CREDIT CARD CHRISTMAS


Christmas is coming and our cards are all maxed. 
My wife says don't fret, just try to relax.
But her car needs breaks, and mine needs new tires. 
Tax time is coming, and yet, we're still buyers.

For beneath our tree, there’s one empty place 
Which we’ll buy gifts for that will fill up the space. 
Cause what fun is Christmas if we can't give out gifts 
That kids tear open as the snow outside drifts.

We’ll light up the fire, and have a Christmas feast. 
Say thank you to God, for saving us from the beast.
It may seem silly, but we can 't help but share. 
It's that time of year to show others we care.



NIGHT OF NIGHTS


In the tiny town of Bethlehem,
Born in a stable, an infant lie.
While he slept his first dreamless night, 
A whole universe of stars passed by.

When Jesus Christ our savior was born 
Most of the angels began to sing,
Of peace, and good will to all mankind, 
And alleluia to earth's new king.

There were those angels, who did not sing,
For they had passed through the devil's gate.
They knew this young lad belonged to God,
And for them salvation was too late.

So let's rejoice, and sing with great cheer, 
That night when Jesus slept without fear.
For our Lord's birthday comes once a year, 
On that night of nights we hold so dear.



CHRISTMAS IS COMING


"Oh" Christmas is coming and I'm all alone,
With no one to snuggle at night.
My wineglass is empty to help dull the desire 
To kiss you by soft candlelight.

A rare pearl of value, you don 't leave alone 
Or someone will steal them from you.
 After they've gone and flown far away 
It's hard to know just what to do.

 I'm watching my neighbors hang lights on their tree; 
With tinsel and striped candy cane.
Cause I took you for granted and didn't hug enough; 
And now I must suffer my pain.

Lord, I'm so lonely; I wish I could die,
Then be born to relive again.
I realize the value of someone to love 
And the danger of my selfish sin.

There's a ring on my phone and a knock at the door.
Which do I dare go for?
For, if neither is you, I'll break down and cry 
And again pound my fist on the floor.

As I run down the hall the doorknob turns, 
As the swirling snow rides on the wind.
There, in my doorway, it's the face that I love
Such a beautiful present to send.

Now, I am happy and dancing around, 
With a permanent smile on my face.
As children are singing their Christmas love songs, 
And the world is a wonderful place.


CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Red, gold, yellow, green and blue
Are the colors of Christmas, which glow.
They help us feel their value within
As we travel our way through the snow.

Red stands for passion, anger or desire
Gold is the steadiness of love.
Yellow is fear of the unforeseen
Green and blue are the stars above.

The luster of Christmas can be yours
Most anywhere at a nearby store.
To purchase and adorn your tree and home .
Celebrating life, Jesus and more. 

KENNEDY "THE WAR YEARS"
PT-109

After the attack on Pearl Harbor
He applied for sea duty in the war. 
Where Lieutenant John F. Kennedy
Became known for his bravery and more.

In the dark hours before dawn
On August 2, of 43.
Kennedy commanded a torpedo boat
Through the blackness of night at sea.

PT-109, was on Solomon’s patrol
With a 12-man crew in a plywood craft.
A Japanese destroyer plowed through the night
Ramming and cutting Kennedy’s boat in half.

Two of the crew just disappeared
A third was badly burned. 
Kennedy himself was thrown to the deck,
Where in pain his leadership he earned.

Some of his men had never learned to swim
As he gathered them on the bobbing bow.
The hours passed tell it seemed it would sink
So they made for an island and here’s how. 

He ordered those who could to swim 
The others were to hang on to a beam.
Kennedy grabbed the injured sailor
And off they tread through the ocean stream.

With his teeth clenched on the burnt man’s vest straps
Skipper Kennedy swam 3 miles.
5 hours later they all made it
Despite their hardships, sharks, and trials.

The next problem was how to summon up help
Without arousing the enemy all around.
After several attempts swimming to other islands
Eventually two natives in a canoe were found.

Kennedy scratch a note on a coconut
To be delivered to a base 38 miles away.
The message made it and they were saved
And their courage still lives us today.

THE LONELINESS OF WAR (WW II)

I know I’m still here so far, far away,
As I fight for what I believe is right.
I wonder about you and your mom,
Every moment of every day and night.

The loneliness of war can drive you insane,
If you don’t get letters of concern from home.
Left, right, behind and ahead,
Death awaits leaving love ones alone.

We pray to God that we will be saved 
To return home or live the here after.
Bloody, dirt-covered men, we see everyday,
As we yearn for those times of laughter.

The far off stare of a fallen comrade,
As you stay by his side till his end.
No mother ever carried her infant child,
More carefully, than we do a friend.

Many have their own personal diaries,
To help keep their faculties together.
Watching hot steel crash into human flesh,
Always make home seem far away and better.

I’ve become an expert at dodging, weaving and diving,
So try not to worry too much about me.
Just help your mom and stand up from the ground,
And while I’m gone be all you can be.

Love Dad

FREEDOM

In their new uniforms,
The young march off
Not knowing who shall return.
With a proud devotion, 
They brandish their flag
Leaving loved ones to wonder and yearn.

May we all be buried 
By all of our children
Is an ancient tribal prayer.
They're so easy to lose 
But so hard to forget;
Such a burden for a parent to bear.

Oh, the taste of victory 
Shall soon be forgotten;
But, never that which was lost.
For those rows of white headstones 
In peaceful green fields,
Make it easy to tally the cost.

America has survived all attempts to destroy 
Knowing the cruelty of war,
And, we who remain 
Must help keep her free
For those who can march no more!

TROOP SHIP

Our ship had sailed before the dawn 
Surrounded by the thickest of fog,
Still ignorant of our destination
Or what was written in the captain's log.

It didn't take long for me to see
Our cruise was not for fun;
An experience of a lifetime
With nowhere for us to run.

Twenty knots per hour we cruised
As the white caps passed us by;
Ten thousand young Americans 
Off to Europe to die.

A sailor told us not to worry;
Someday we’d get our mail.
Uncle Sam would make sure
No matter how far we sail.

Thirty feet deep I tried to sleep
Beneath our ship's waterline, 
Just the place for claustrophobia 
To enter into my mind.

My favorite vest was my May West 
Which I wore all the time
Just in case of German U-boats 
Or an underwater mine.

Thirty-three days we were at sea, 
We crossed the equator twice.
Many years have passed since then, 
Those years of sacrifice.

WAR

As war is fought it takes charge, 
And events spin out of control.
The madness of men can alter the soil 
Which nourishes the roots of their soul.

Many things will forever change, 
Far more then wished to be.
As the wrath of war starts to destroy, 
Those things we fight to keep free.

War is the greatest plague of man, 
Religion, state, and sanity.
Any scourge is more preferred, 
Than the one which disables humanity.

When war breaks out, boundaries change 
And all who die are a token,
Of the rage that must run it's course, 
Before words of peace are spoken.

DADS AT WAR

Where would I be without you dad? 
My hero of night and day
I'm so glad you love my mother, 
And take time for us each day.

The last time we played baseball,
You reached for me with your hand. 
I looked at you, then made a wish, 
That I might be just half the man.

I love my father of this earth,
And I love my father of heaven.
It's a lot for me to love, you know, 
For I’m only eleven.

Mom and I sure miss you, 
Since you left to defend our flag. 
When others ask, where is your dad?
I can't help but boast and brag.

D-DAY

D-Day raised the curtain on the conflict 
That fore shadowed the end of Hitler's dream.
The largest joint combat landing ever, 
Though the blood from both sides flowed like a stream.

When their boats hit the sand, their ramps went down, 
And all within paid a visit to hell.
They jumped out to do good for their country, 
And to kill the enemy without fail.

They fought the Germans, tides, winds and the waves, 
In conditions not easily foreseen.
By night the battle was in our favor, 
With bravery, valor, death, and men who scream.

The corpses littered the beach for five miles, 
Though heroism had carried the day,
With literally thousands dead or wounded,
Those who were left were determined to stay.

They faced great odds and chose not to protest, 
And won the war that put evil to shame.
Most came home, married and raised their babies,
But those who could not we recall with pain.

PEARL HARBOR 

Sunday, December the seventh,
In the year of 1941,
While most of Hawaii still slept, 
Came the planes of the Rising Sun.

Waves of bombers and fighters flew, 
From the decks of the Japanese ships.
While our planes were still on the ground, 
"Banzai" was spoken from their lips.

The winds of war had been blowing 
Across the oceans of our earth,
Though not till Pearl had been bombed, 
Did we realize what freedom’s worth.

Wars are fought and won on two fronts, 
At home and on the battle line.
Both are equally important,
When war consumes our heart and mind.

The attack brought us World War II, 
With death, pain and separation.
All who had served were well aware 
Of their sacrifice for nation.

D DAY - THE WALL

Over two hundred rangers scaled "The Wall"
A stone cliff over one hundred feet tall.
Some of them made it all the way to the top,
While others fell and perished from their drop.

Those who climbed over, had answered God's call; 
For men to stop evil once and for all.
They fought the Germans and destroyed their guns, 
To save the lives of our fathers and sons.

So many years have passed since then,
When our world's future was saved by brave men. 
We cannot forget the hell they went through,
Before the skies, again  turned blue.

MIDWAY

It was June the 4th 1942,
As I was floating in the ocean alone;
The ship I had sailed on, sank to the bottom
And I thought I would never again, see home.

The Japanese fleet had steamed in from the east
With the intentions of capturing Midway. 
Though they were stopped by American war ships,
Whose guns, bombs and torpedoes planes saved the day.

All night long, I watched the fireworks of war
And on the second day we turned up the heat.
As big bombers from Hawaii dropped their loads,
On Japanese ships who soon chose to retreat.

An imperial pilot came floating close by,
Who had been chewed on by the beasts of the sea. 
I couldn't help but feel passion for this is man
Who had answered his call just like me.

When it was over, I was plucked from the deep,
By men in a lifeboat just after the dawn.
For two days I had watched the battle for, Midway;
Now it's quiet and the enemy has gone.

SURVIVAL

I drifted all night and was loosing my hope 
Before by the moon's light I saw dry land.
I floated over and through its reefs to the beach, 
Where I quickly smoothed out my tracks in the sand.

All I had was my dagger and a canteen 
And it was May 4th of 43.
Just me alone on an enemy island, 
Wasn't a safe place for a sailor to be.

I felt I could kill in less than a heartbeat 
If that's what it took for me to survive. 
I’d already said thanks so many times, 
For "God" was the reason I was alive.

Off in the dark, I herd two men's voices, 
Laughing and talking in a language not mine. 
Inch by inch I crept to their campsite,
Where on what they were eating, I would soon dine.

I stabbed them both and took their fish, rice and wine; 
Then ran my way back to the raft by the beach.
Soon I was floating in the ocean again 
And far enough out where bullets couldn't reach.

The next day I was picked up by a seaplane, 
Whose crew spotted my sail from the air. 
Once inside and safe, I cried like a child, 
For the dead whom would forever be there.

It was hard to believe heaven let me live;
A farm boy from Kansas, in high school last year.
My girlfriend is blond and she hates it I 'm gone.
Though I'm a veteran of battle, death, and fear.
 
GENERAL QUARTERS

General quarters, general quarters, 
All hands man your battle station! 
Sunday morning, December the 7th,
As war confronted our nation.

We soon found out it wasn't a drill 
But instead it was war for real.
As you watch the death of friends and shipmates, 
It's more anger than fear you feel.

Japanese warplanes came flying in low, 
As I took aim with my gun sight.
From the deck of a ship anchored at Pearl 
Damaged, though crew still eager to fight.

I saw the face of a pilot, who crashed,
Surrounded by black smoke and fire.
Some of my bullets must have found their mark.
For his death was but my desire!

Two thousand, three hundred and twenty-three killed, 
In a battle less than two hours.
With the heart of our Pacific fleet gone, 
Japan had flexed their naval powers.

The bombing and strafing of ships and troops 
Caused our congress to declare full war. 
Where many a man laid down his life 
Fighting for flag, country and more.

OKINAWA 1941

Okinawa was to be our last stop
Before we invaded Japan.
The largest landing of the Pacific war, 
As our soldiers ran across the sand.

At first our marines were scarcely opposed 
But on the fifth day hell they found. 
A solid wall of human resistance
Firing their weapons from caves in the ground.

Air power and big guns had little affect
On their cliff forts carved deep in the limestone. 
It took man against man to root them out
As flying bullets pierced flesh and bone.

Kamikaze pilots crashed their planes
Knocking out transports and war ships.
As the Imperial air force struck our fleet, 
Cries of fear and hate spewed from lips.

One hundred, ten thousand Japanese 
By the end of the battle were killed. 
Over twelve thousand Americans died, 
Before, just our flag flew over the field.

OUR FLAG

Our flag is fabric wove of thread,
Carried by heroes live and dead. 
She stands for justice and courage too, 
With her colors; red, white and blue.

For all who serve her, there’ll be cheers, 
For any who die, there’ll be tears, 
For all who love her, life is swell, 
For those who harm her, war is hell.

How many moms have cried before, 
As they sent their children to war. 
How many dads have not returned, 
Because our freedom must be earned.

Wars were waged where brave men died 
As patriots fought side by side. 
Our flag is still the pearl of earth,
Because of those who prove her worth.

VETERAN'S DAY

The cost of freedom is sometimes high, 
Extremely more when our loved one's die.
Men and women pledged to fight and serve, 
And it's our support that they deserve.

Mankind itself is the one to blame, 
That all through history, the story's the same.
Peace, like love, can be hard to acquire, 
Subject always to enemy fire.

Some how the righteouses tend to prevail, 
Over the miss-guided, prone to fail.
No wonder we fear the tongues that lie, 
As mankind squabbles beneath God's sky.

The danger our solders face is real, 
So lets let them know just how we feel.
Put forth your flag and show them your heart, 
As those we love from us depart.

BATTLE OF THE ATLANTIC

After the fall of France in 1940, 
The Germans soon began their own blockade,
With most their efforts in the Atlantic, 
Hoping to cut Britain's flow of war trade.

With fast surface raiders like the Bismarck, 
Merchant ships caught at sea, had little chance. 
The German’s small navy sank ship after ship, 
Till the British Navy destroyed war's romance.

Shipping losses from German U-boats increased, 
And the battle of the Atlantic seemed lost.
But soon America would enter the war, 
To defeat freedom’s enemies at all cost.

Multitudes would die and their families cry, 
Before World War II would be fought to its end. 
What a waste of mankind, which had lost its mind, 
Though now, our enemy is our friend.

P.O.W.

When you become a P.O.W.
You find you've lost your liberty and more, 
The guy with the gun tells you what to do, 
As you yearn for freedoms you had before.

Your will to serve helps keep you alive, 
Though sometimes you wish you were dead.
Tortures far beyond any normal mind, 
And there's no safety, even your bed.

Bullets, barbwire, searchlights and sharp teeth, 
Keep you in a place you don't wish to be.
The food is quite awful and sometimes it moves, 
And you've no choice of what you hear or see.

The lucky are released and return home, 
Though in their dreams their fate is unsure. 
War may be hell, but confinement is worse, 
Cause afterwards you're never as you were.

SHOULD TOMORROW START WITHOUT ME ?

Should tomorrow start without me
Remember I love you.
Looking down from up above
Seeing everything you do.

If I become a casualty
I pray you will love again
Whom ever makes you happy
I’ll consider my friend.

Should tomorrow start without me
Remind our boys, God loves all who care.
And when life seems too harsh and cruel
With "Him" they must share their prayer.

I have proven I’m not a coward
Who breaks and runs to survive.
Always fearing death will kiss me
As the streets of Baghdad I drive.

Should tomorrow start without me
Be proud I choose to serve.
Our faith and our patriotism
Earn the freedom we deserve.

I miss home more than ever
It breaks my heart to stay away
I can’t help but want to hold you 
And whisper what I say.

THANK HEAVEN FOR HEROES

Thank heaven for the heroes of life
Who lead us to overcome those who are not.
The wise are grateful for all God’s blessings
Where fools never realize what they’ve got.

America is the grain train of earth
Whose people exercise rule by their vote.
All have a chance to partake and prosper
As they arrive by foot, plane or boat.

Our freedom relies on the law of the land,
Our future depends on our grit.
Our past has known both good and bad
And our mistakes we are willing to admit.

The grim of heart hate America
And choose to put her wonders to shame
The devotion of most who love and live here
Rise up to defeat the soldiers of blame.

SHOULDER TO SHOULDER

Americans harmonize in sentiment 
While facing the challenges of life.    
Shoulder to shoulder we defined our land
Through hardship, sacrifice and strife.

We are eager to oppose our enemies
Wherever they raise their head.
Our principles must be practiced 
To avoid being conquered or dead.

We fail to see the merits of a dictator 
Only freedom to work and pray as we please.
Most seek guidance from a higher power
As we share our concerns on our knees.

We have always held liberty close to our hearts
Unwilling to surrender to demise.
Whenever its existence was threatened 
We have chosen to follow the wise.

We can’t foresee what the future may bring
Though we give it our best not to fail.
Every 4th of July we illuminate the sky
Proving freedom is alive and well.

AMERICAN SOLDIER

Our soldiers line up to be remembered
As the best of the best at their job.
They wish to be needed and depended on
To save all we love from the mob.

They risk their life and limb for liberty
Standing firm against evil unwilling to break.
To be part of something greater than themselves
They are willing to sacrifice whatever it will take.

FORMIDABLE FOE

America is the birthday cake of earth, 
As the ants march from every direction.
Thank God for all who have sworn to defend her, 
Serving with love, honor, pride, and affection.

Since the first day George Washington marched off to war, 
There have been those who have wished our demise.
Their hatred, fueled by jealousy and greed, 
Was defeated by our brave and the wise.

Once again, we must face a formidable foe, 
Who have pledged by their God to destroy us all
Misusing their faith as an excuse to kill, 
As for a worldwide jihad, their leaders call.

Some say we should try to appease them, 
For if we resist, they’ll hate us even more.
But the David's among us shall cast our stones, 
Defeating them, as it was done before.
 
VETERAN'S DAY

The cost of freedom is sometimes high, 
Extremely more when our loved one's die.
Men and women pledged to fight and serve, 
And it's our support that they deserve.
Mankind itself is the one to blame, 
That all through history, the story's the same.

Peace, like love, can be hard to acquire, 
Subject always to enemy fire.
Some how the righteouses tend to prevail, 
Over the miss-guided, prone to fail.

No wonder we fear the tongues that lie, 
As mankind squabbles beneath God's sky.
The danger our solders face is real, 
So lets let them know just how we feel.

Put forth your flag and show them your heart, 
As those we love from us depart.

OUR FLAG

Our flag is fabric wove of thread,
Carried by heroes live and dead. 
She stands for justice and courage too, 
With her colors; red, white and blue.

For all who serve her, there’ll be cheers, 
For any who die, there’ll be tears, 
For all who love her, life is swell, 
For those who harm her, war is hell.

How many moms have cried before, 
As they sent their children to war. 
How many dads have not returned, 
Because our freedom must be earned.

Wars were waged where brave men died 
As patriots fought side by side. 
Our flag is still the pearl of earth,
Because of those who prove her worth.

D-DAY

D-Day raised the curtain on the conflict 
That fore shadowed the end of Hitler's dream.
The largest joint combat landing ever, 
Though the blood from both sides flowed like a stream.

When their boats hit the sand, their ramps went down, 
And all within paid a visit to hell.
They jumped out to do good for their country, 
And to kill the enemy without fail.

They fought the Germans, tides, winds and the waves, 
In conditions not easily foreseen.
By night the battle was in our favor, 
With bravery, valor, death, and men who scream.

The corpses littered the beach for five miles, 
Though heroism had carried the day,
With literally thousands dead or wounded,
Those who were left were determined to stay.

They faced great odds and chose not to protest, 
And won the war that put evil to shame.
Most came home, married and raised their babies,
But those who could not we recall with pain.

SOLDIERS

Every man should be a soldier, 
As it was with Romans and Greeks, 
For evil loves to steal men's souls 
And strike freedom from their cheeks.

It's not the guns or armament, 
Or the flags which fly in parade,
But love and cooperation 
That stops the devil's charade.

Always remember those who march 
To the roll of muffled drums.
Many we know, shall not return
Except to sleep beneath the mums.

DADS AT WAR

Where would I be without you dad? 
My hero of night and day
I'm so glad you love my mother, 
And take time for us each day.

The last time we played baseball,
You reached for me with your hand. 
I looked at you, then made a wish, 
That I might be just half the man.

I love my father of this earth,
And I love my father of heaven.
It's a lot for me to love, you know, 
For I’m only eleven.

Mom and I sure miss you, 
Since you left to defend our flag. 
When others ask, where is your dad?
I can't help but boast and brag.

FREEDOM

In their new uniforms,
The young march off
Not knowing who shall return.
With a proud devotion, 
They brandish their flag
Leaving loved ones to wonder and yearn.

May we all be buried 
By all of our children
Is an ancient tribal prayer.
They're so easy to lose 
But so hard to forget;
Such a burden for a parent to bear.

Oh, the taste of victory 
Shall soon be forgotten;
But, never that which was lost.
For those rows of white headstones 
In peaceful green fields,
Make it easy to tally the cost.

America has survived all attempts to destroy 
Knowing the cruelty of war,
And, we who remain 
Must help keep her free
For those who can march no more!

All poems included on this page 
are copyrighted by Tom Zart
Author of 
LOVE WAR AND MORE
reprinted with permission 
by the author

MWSA Book Review  
Love, War & More 
Author: Tom Zart 
Publisher: Publish America 
Reviewer: Bill McDonald 
President of the MWSA

A Poet’s thoughts, on history, emotions 
and more.Normally you pick up a poetry 
book and it may run about 50 to 80 pages 
but not the man who is called 
"The Westport Poet." Poet Tom Zart gives 
the reader their money’s worth of poetry 
in his fine collection called 
"Love, War & More" His book, at 267 pages, 
is filled with the thoughts and emotions 
of a dedicated poet and his vast spiritual 
tastes for life. His prose runs the gauntlet 
from relationships, battle, butterflies, and 
even one that ends the book called "Katrina" 
about what happened in New Orleans.My favorite 
poem in his collection deals with turning 60 
years old since I can relate to that experience. 
His poems are easy to read and more traditional 
in nature, as opposed to all those beat and new 
age writings that flourish in newer poetry books. 
It is readable by all mature family members and 
thought provoking at times.His war poetry covers 
everything from Pearl Harbor and D-Day to present 
day battles. He honors Soldiers and Sailors and 
our nation through many well thought out pieces 
of prose. There is something of interest in his 
collection of poetry for all readers.This is one 
of the most assorted and diverse collections of 
poetry ever assembled in one volume. For poetry 
lovers this will be a great book to buy. This book 
is given the MWSA's highest rating for a poetry 
book - 5 STARS!