Must we respect the niceties of war,

When enemies adhere to no such code?

Civility becomes a fatal flaw

Which adds some extra kilos to our load.

 

Our protocols are there for all to see,

And everyone agrees we must abide

By rules which are the price for living free,

Although they’re only honoured by one side.

 

Our foe abuses captives and denies

Their fundamental rights when in its keep;

Yet we lament that one invader dies,

And feel no pleasure, indeed almost weep.

 

But in that way we take the higher ground

And try to put adversaries to shame;

If decency as such is spread around,

There may be virtue in this brutal game.