The Final Inspection

> The Marine stood and faced his God

> Which must always come to pass

> He hoped his shoes were shining

> Just as brightly as his brass.

>

> "Step forward now, you Devil-Dog,

> How shall I deal with you?

> Have you always turned the other cheek?

> To my Church have you been true?"

>

> The Marine squared his shoulders and said,

> "No Lord, I guess I ain't "

> "Because those of us who carry guns

> Can't always be a saint."

>

> I've had to work most Sundays

> And at times my talk was rough,

> And sometimes I've been violent,

> Because the streets are awfully tough.

>

> But, I never took a penny

> That wasn't mine to keep...

> Though I worked a lot of overtime

> When the bills just got too steep.

>

> And I never passed a cry for help,

> Though at times I shook with fear,

> And sometimes, God forgive me,

> I've wept unmanly tears.

>

> And I know I don't deserve a place

> Among the people here,

> They never wanted me around

> Except to calm their fears.

>

> If you've a place for me here, Lord,

> It needn't be so grand,

> I never expected or had too much,

> But if you don't, I'll understand."

>

> There was a silence all around the throne

> Where the saints had often trod

> As the Marine waited quietly,

> For the judgment of his God.

>

> "Step forward now, Marine

> You've borne your burdens well,

> Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,

> You've done your time in HELL."

>

> Semper Fi