Monday, August 6, 2018

day FIVE HUNDRED and SIXTY FOUR


Long Beach Cried Today
July 3, 2018
For Captain David Rosa


It starts with the big engine fire trucks, followed by
ambulances, squad cars, finally motorcycles.
The uncountable sirens in unison
wailing into the open air of our broken-hearted city.
I will never forget the sound, so otherworldly.
They’ve come from throughout Southern California and beyond.

The procession seems endless,
but what does time matter in honoring this man,
a fire captain and murdered hero?

I approach a police officer
to express my sorrow.
I weep as I speak the words.
Composed and stoic
in his creased black uniform,
he thanks me.                                                                                                                         

--Jeri Thompson

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