The Fallen Hero

Fighting the flames,
running in,
when everyone else,
is running out.

Covered in ash,
with rings of sweat,
crouched on his knees,
crawling through, thick smoke.

Sirens screaming,
people crying.
Crackling flames,
the building creaking,
falling apart.

Crumbling beneath his feet,
falling all around him,
emotions running wild,
adrenaline through his veins.

The hero,
The one everyone counts on.
The one running in,
and the one who may not,
run back out.

Suddenly flames,
showing no mercy,
leaving him no way to turn back,
surrounding him.
Watching his fate before his eyes.

Searching for a way out,
heart racing fast,
his wife and kids at home.
Seeing their faces.
Memories flash through his mind.

No way out,
In a panic, trying to stay calm,
supposed to be brave.
Gives the call,
for everyone to pull out.
He’s not gonna make it.

Cleaned and pressed uniforms,
white gloves on their hands.
Their hands go up.
A final respectful salute.

The lights flashing,
the soft footsteps,
of the one's he fought with.

The flag is lowered,
on to the casket.
Lowering him in,
A goodbye to a fallen hero.

Tomorrow they will all,
get back on the truck,
and keep his memory,
living on.