Golden Gate

On calm blue waters we sailed along,

  Left My Heart was our favorite song.

With Subic, the Rock, and the jungle behind,

  We hoped that somehow that lost year we’d find.

Two weeks at sea, seven time zones,

  The salt-water showers freezin’ our bones.

Then up above a seagull did soar,

  ‘o welcome us home from the damn war.

The dolphins surfed about in the wake,

  The Gunny told us to take a short break.

Ahead, there arose an awesome sight,

  The Golden Gate was shiny and bright.

A welcome sign after doing our bit,

  The Patrick just sailed right under it.

We kept on our way and entered the bay,

  I’d have to say it was one happy day.

Looked at my orders, El Toro it was,

  I was no hero; I got no applause.

I had a sea-bag full of fine things,

  After pawning my watch and selling my rings.

Back where nice girls write their Dear Johns,

  Sending them off to the Larrys and Rons.

Where thousands were marching for Civil Rights,

  And Watts was burning for many long nights.

Soon they’ll build rockets to go to the moon,

  While promising that the war will end soon.

The roads are full of Mustangs and Goats,

  While millions of folks don’t get their votes.

The silver is gone from dollars and dimes,

  They’re trying to say these are good times.

I might go to Reno to try out my luck,

  Thumbing a ride in the back of a truck.

I’m back in The World, but what can I do?

  Just count up the days until I am through.

LDT August 21, ‘25

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