The Resolute ~ Dedicated to all the Marines on the West Coast I wake to the sound of yelling Kill Hats And fearful youths, Pain etched across their youthful faces Their terror equal despite their races. Months spent in complete terror, Wondering, Undecided, if it was in error. The rest of our lives we commit, As of yet untrue, Though we live our lives for the moment. As fear consumes everything, For we are yet new, uncouth. Our days consist of fistfights; Of yelling contests, galore Though all of my new bunkmates In my squadbay I detest, I abhor. Slowly will becomes weak And betwixt duty and love hearts are torn, Yet with resolve we carry on, Hearts holding bitter scorn. Yet as the hours turn into days, then weeks We all learn alone we are weak As together we become, All become single All become one. So as we all labor, And with strain ourselves we test, Respect for each one grows, As we all do our best. And as the fear comes to an end, Arrives realization that this was only a test of time, All fear and pain contained within frightened minds. So arrives the day; we have all survived, When finally, we can display our pride. Our pride upon our chests, And upon our covers glisten, As we begin our futures, Though our parents eyes may glisten Step by weary step; Hike by tiresome hike, We fought to this day, Just to hear the announcer say, “To our newest Marines, Semper Fidelis,” As we headed our differing ways. Separated throughout the western states, Though Marines we all stay.