Addict
found half-submerged
in a manhole—
scorched wrists
from needle shots
through veins.
Reports broadcast
homelessness, depression.
Divorced family
across state lines—
wife preferred a
man who could hide
his nightmares, soldier
in bed alone.
Dog tags project
still images of
half-naked children
dancing a dirt song
on fire.
© 2016 Nortina Simmons
Nortina's Writing Inspiration Well 
Powerful indeed. Unfortunate such a hero, ends up with horrible nightmares when he sleeps and when he is awake.
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It is unfortunate. I can’t imagine the torment veterans experience after they come home from war. And to be pretty much ignored by a country they risked their lives for… It’s so sad.
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Very powerful poem, Nortina. Very sad.
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Thank you!
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