Commentary – Bayonet drill for recruits

Oh, how old soldiers remember past days with bayonet drill
The shrieking orders; “on guard, thrust, parry, feint”
“Go for the throat or stomach for an easy kill”
“Kick, gouge; bite; no Kingsbury rules, cos enemy ain’t Saints” 

On and on it went, where flashing glinting bayonets could be seen
Soldiers charging, screaming, breathless, dry mouths and tongues
Bayoneting dummies which don’t flinch, beg, bleed or scream
Muscles aching and painful panting beneath an ever fiery sun

A welcome whistle blast was the signal to finally rest
A sergeant bellowing “You must do better to pass the final test”
Then after “lights out”; in sleep, still came faint commands to kill
At home mothers dreamt of their youngster’s love of life and kind will

In Canberra, lights still burn far into the night
As busy dreamers try to find nice ways to fight
To appease the faint hearted at home and a UN abroad
Of killing foe with kindness, and not rifle, bayonet, or sword  

 George Mansford ©June 2021

Become A Digital Member




Visit State or Territory Associations

Click here for Queensland BranchClick here for Northern Territory BranchClick here for Western Australia BranchClick here for South Australia BranchClick here for New South Wales BranchClick here for Australian Capital Territory BranchClick here for Victoria BranchClick here for Tasmania Branch

Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Campaign Donations

Follow Us