Because of my Marine--
Korean soil ran red just after his 20th birthday.
I didn't know him then,
Neither did I bear the children born to him.
It was two days after his 65th birthday
our life together began.
In faith, we took that awesome risk;
He taught me the true meaning of "husband".

Because of my Marine- -
I learned that a man can live in constant pain,
And still be compassionate and kind.
I found that when something went wrong,
The fault was not always mine.
And when I was in the wrong,
There was a love that didn't seem to mind.
There is joy just being loved;
I never knew before.
We laughed together; I was safe at his side.

Because of my Marine--
My life is more blessed than words can tell.
I have joyous memories to cherish!
Little things, only we could know.
Each day was an adventure in happiness;
His joy was my delight!
My heart would pray words, I may fight
When he'd relive that war through the night.

Because my Marine suffers no more pain;
Will never relive horrors that plagued his mind;
Can walk; can run; yes, even dance;
Can raise his arm to praise our Lord.
I thank God we trusted Him enough to take that chance.
And when the void I feel seems unbearable,
May I remember things listed above,
And raise my heart in praise.
I have known what it means to be loved,
Because of my Marine.

Lance Corporal William Phillip Boyd, Jr. (1930-2004)