Beneath the Waves

Many exercised their creative talents during downtime on patrol by writing poetry or prose. Here's a spot to share yours.
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rmbowen
Posts: 61
Joined: Wed Oct 25, 2006 7:25 pm
First Name: Roy
Last Name: Bowen
Crew?: Both
Which Years on Board: 1967-1971
Special Crew?: Neither
Rate: EM2(SS/DV)

Beneath the Waves

Post by rmbowen »

I started this poem years ago, I believe it was in 1971 shortly after our overhaul. We were leaving Electric Boat the second time (after repairs from the HP air accident). The air accident started me thinking about how close Submariners live to the ragged edge. The poem began as a tribute to those who have served on Submarines throughout history. But, over the years, I could not get the pen to connect to my brain whenever I tried to work on it. I guess it is a mood thing with me - sometimes the Muse is just not in.

I sat down this morning to make my reservations for the 627 reunion and guess who rang my mental door bell... yep, Calliope herself. I was thinking about the tolling of the bells ceremony and here is what she brought to me. Although I dashed it off and will probably modify it, I applied for the copyrite because I thought it was good enough to put it on the website. I hope you like it.

Beneath the Waves

Take me down beneath the waves
Where few have gone before;
Where secrets abound and mystery is found
Intertwined with truth on the ocean floor.
Pass with respect through these waters
Where broken submarines lie;
Their crews will never see another sunset,
Or kiss a new bride goodbye.
They volunteered to serve, when duty called,
To end wars and strife;
Each went to sea to purchase freedom,
And paid the price with their life.
Every Submariner who died in these waters
Was qualified by the ultimate test;
Neptune, himself, signed each card
And guards their place of rest.
So take me down beneath the waves,
Pin dolphins on my chest;
Let qualified men tap them gently
To place tradition deep in my breast.
Toll the bell once and call the name
Of each submarine that lost men to ocean graves,
For the spirits of their men are yet on patrol,
Standing watch beneath the waves.

Roy Mack Bowen 3/31/2015
©Copyright application # 1-2264615771
R.M. Bowen EM2(SS/DV)
1967-1970 blue crew April 1970-1971 gold crew
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