The Cost

Bombs and bullets
Destruction and more
Paving the way to a living hell’s door

You were asked to go
Asked to fight
Protecting those both near and far
all your breath and might

How could anyone know
The cost you would pay
For serving America in so many ways
You signed over your life
Time, breath and your sweat
What about freedom’s cost
Do some people not get?

The Republic’s been battered
Liberty kneels
In hopes of reprieve from on high
I’m telling you now
And telling you straight
Freedom’s bell will ring stronger it’s true
There’s a blood bought payday
Coming our way
Paid by many through the passage of time

The Red Sea did open
The tomb was found empty
Hope springs eternally

We serve a just God
Who gave what they begged for
Those who were blind as can be

For some never learn
Until they go through
The price for what they demanded

Don’t ever give up
Don’t ever give in
Not one drop of blood was in vain

Timing is in
the hands of the master
in heaven who sees what we miss

He laughs at men’s folly
Their plans and their mockery
Believing they have control

History will repeat  
What’s sown we will reap
And evil will never prevail                                                                                                                 

Until the hour comes
When victory assured
Crosses your door and your life

Honor those lost
With the fullest of measure
Overcoming one day at a time

Your reward is with HIM
You know in your heart
The world shines brighter with you

Your strong
You are home
Breathe in and breathe out
Celebrate each and every new day

We love you dear heroes
Never forget
We love you in every way

_____________________________

For 43 years, Dennis and Diana Nickell shared their lives, passion, and hearts. Dennis, a Vietnam Combat Veteran who dealt daily with the aftermath of his 14 months in-country, spent his later years reaching out to Veterans, their loved ones and tried to help share why you should never give up. Sept, 12th, 2021 Dennis joined his brothers in arms in heaven, who never had the chance to have the life he fought for daily, and his wife Diana still carries on the mission of educating, enlightening, and encouraging those who have paid such a heavy price for freedom. 

Dedicated to ALL, first responders, and heroes, Diana has found peace in the wealth of her family and her faith. The YouTube series Surviving Vietnam can be accessed freely at https://www.survivevietnam.com/

“Quiet Place” first appeared in Breaking Chains, written by Dennis Nickell.

All rights are reserved, for created content shared about their amazing journey, including original poetry by Diana. Feel free to contact Diana at dnickell1955@gmail.com with any questions or concerns.

As the Voice of the Veteran Community, The Havok Journal seeks to publish a variety of perspectives on a number of sensitive subjects. Unless specifically noted otherwise, nothing we publish is an official point of view of The Havok Journal or any part of the U.S. government.