"I'm only a sergeant!" Jasper said, "Not fit to go ahead In the company of officers; I'm only a sergeant!" he said, When to him a commission was offered, Giving lieutenant's rank For the deed of bravery he had done, -- Not 'mid bayonet's clash and clank, But 'mid a terrific shower of shot And shell from the enemy's side; He leaper o'er the bulwark and back again And our flag securely tied To a sponge staff that was lying near, And hoisted it again Courageously and bravely In the self-same place ir had been, Ere from its lofty position, Shattered by shot and shell, Over the fort impregnable Of palmetto logs it fell. All honor to you brave Jasper! We love and cherish your name For your act of patriotism Which was not done for fame; But just for love of your country, With patriotism true, You braved your life for her colors, -- All honor and praise to you! | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...PSALM 136 by OLD TESTAMENT BIBLE BARNEY'S INVITATION by PHILIP FRENEAU THE LOST WAR-SLOOP by EDNA DEAN PROCTOR PROSOPOPOIA, OR MOTHER HUBBERDS TALE by EDMUND SPENSER THE VIERZIDE CHAIRS by WILLIAM BARNES |