Funeral Poems: A "Farewell Marine" Poem Honoring the Marine Corps
The poem The Watch, also known as Farewell Marine, is a solemn funeral tribute that serves as a profound expression of respect and commemoration for the sacrifices made by Marines.
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The Watch
For twenty years,
This sailor has stood the watch.
While some of us were in our bunks at night,
This sailor stood the watch.
While some of us were in school learning our trade,
This shipmate stood the watch.
Yes.. even before some of us were born into this world,
This shipmate stood the watch.
In those years when the storm clouds of war were seen brewing on the horizon of history,
This shipmate stood the watch.
Many times he would cast an eye ashore and see his family standing there,
Needing his guidance and help,
Needing that hand to hold during those hard times,
But he still stood the watch.
He stood the watch for twenty years,
He stood the watch so that we, our families,
And our fellow countrymen could sleep soundly in safety,
Each and every night,
Knowing that a sailor stood the watch.
Today we are here to say:
"Shipmate... the watch stands relieved.
Relieved by those you have trained, guided, and led
Shipmate, you stand relieved.. we have the watch."
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Notes on the "Farewell Marine" Funeral Poem
This poem reflects the end of duty and the peaceful transition to eternal rest, often shared at Marine Corps funerals. It captures the sadness of saying goodbye, but also the pride and honor that come with military service.
It reminds us that even though we part with our heroes, their legacy lives on, continuing to inspire us long after they are gone.
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