UNIFORM

I would not
volunteer because I
am not a soldier but,
I am a citizen.

My father and brother
wore the uniform
and my uncles all
adjusted their gig line.

Part of something bigger,
feeling good and strong
with shinny brass
buttons connecting to history.

How streamlined and clean
the uniform gleamed.
Bright glossy shoes and
the patches to prove

Advancement in standing
each stripe proved to all.
Peeked hat and ribbons
made me feel mighty tall.