Written for:  Poetic Asides 2023 April PAD Challenge - Day 26

"Write a response poem."


Denial of compensation arrives.
No explanation is provided
by the Veterans Administration,
who simply state, you can appeal.
The Vietnam veteran is in midst
of dementia, residing in nursing home.

Where are they now?

Exposure to Agent Orange,
a poison; left with jungle
rot on both legs, for which
there is no medication
for the burning and itching.
The veteran has never asked
for anything.  Numerous requested forms
were filled out, and medical records sent.

Where are they now?

Young men, drafted, put their lives
on the line.  Thousands were lost.
He is entitled to compensation.  Why 
have a Veterans Administration at all, 
if they turn their backs on the very
people who served their country.

Where are they now?

https://www.writersdigest.com/write-better-poetry/2023-april-pad-challenge-day-26