Bear with me, but could it be...

the Army is the oldest surviving Religion,

with Officers as Priests, Soldiers as Flock,

and a Parish of dependents conflicted by its Cross?

Papa, I’m fourteen now

Thirteen, since you’re gone

last night they gave mama your medal

and we cried the whole night long

So; bear with me, but could it be?

the Army is the oldest surviving Religion,

with Officers as Priests, Soldiers as Flock,

and a Parish of dependents conflicted by its Cross?

A Parish of dependents

conflicted by its Cross

who bridle at commoners

that belittle their loss

As Fathers. As Mothers.

As Sisters. As Brothers.

As Spouses. As Lovers.

As Daughters. As Sons.