Shot At Dawn

During World War 0ne (1914-18) British army executed 306 soldiers charged with desertion or cowardice. On the 16th August,2006, the British Government granted posthumous pardons to all the soldiers. Many innocent, executed as an example for keeping discipline among the ranks. Twelve soldiers, firing squad Stand reluctant, rifles loaded One with blank bullet, others live bullets So, they do not know who fires the blank Thinking themselves innocent of the death. Tied to a post, young terrified soldier Still in teens, hands tied behind post Trembling, not from early morning chill Knowing death is minutes away And he will never see his parents again. Officer in charge of firing squad Steps up to the soldier to be shot Offers a blindfold which is declined Pins white cloth over soldier's heart Target for the firing squad. Army chaplain with head bowed Reads aloud the twenty-third psalm Officer cries, "Take aim... Fire! " Soldier slumps forward secured by tied hands Twitching, chest crimson with blood.