Five years ago, Christine Kaila '12 was prepping for R-Day. Forty-seven months later, she was on the Plain again, this time in a red sash during the Grad Parade. Her graduation and commissioning last year sparked the following words, written by her uncle:
we curiously watch
through a stone-clad arch
furtive figures
mustering to march
the anticipation thick
the surrounding throngs press
the Corps assembles ----
“dress on me” and “dress right dress”
a main event
with musical intro
a steady beat
and resolute tempo
in lock-step forward
they emerge from the “gates”
and enter “The Plain”
to futures and fates
leaders in front
and leaders behind
my eyes see the Present
but the Past in my mind
rifles shouldered
sabres drawn
soldiers all
no kings or pawns
the first for many
the last for some
their ranks will thin
the “experience” done
respectful tones
parents’ pride
blueprint for Life
true and tried
spit and polish
before the sun
character building
intellect and gun
bedlam banned
precise and prepared
intel and planning
no wing and a prayer
a gauntlet for all
cloaked in “higher ed”
where meek is barred
and bravery bred
their mettle tested
forged in strife
together bound
bonds for life
others before them
threw shadows long
cast in blood and
spirit and song
well trained and poised
above the fray
they’ll take their place
in the Long Line Gray.
-- John Kaila