I had a Marine wrapped around my finger well before I could speak,

My first true love was a selfless, brave man, who seemed to wear army green.

I would sit and cry everytime he said goodbye, waiting for one more hug,

He would wipe my tears and softly say, “Stay strong my little bug.”

The air became crisp as October ended, my costume search began,  

Instead of being a disney princess, I had a much better plan.

My mom created a red and black dress with antennas made from a rug,

I grabbed my treat bag and ran door to door, dressed like a lady bug.

My grandparents walked into my house, carrying a crock pot full of greens,

I smiled and ran to hold their hands, they were the ones who raised my marine.

As we gathered at the dinner table and bowed our heads to pray,

I looked at my gram and said, “Tell Jesus to bring Daddy back today.”

My mom let go of my hand and walked off, I could tell she couldn’t speak,

Gram said, “Of course. That’s a great idea,” and then we started to eat. 

My mom stayed strong and carried on as if my dad were near,

But when Christmas came, and the anthem sung, I watched her shed a tear.

At school that day, we made Christmas gifts for those who have helped us grow,

Unlike the others, mine stood apart, with a big red, white, and blue bow.

When Santa came and brought us gifts, I couldn’t help but see,

The present I made remained untouched, tagged “To: Dad, From: Me.”

I became impatient sitting with Mom, watching the ball drop on the screen,

I waited and waited, excitedly knowing the New Year would bring my daddy back to me.

February seemed like an eternity away, but I knew my family could handle it,

As tough as it is, he needs my support, while protecting me from conflict.

We watched the screen as everyone screamed, “Five, Four, Three, Two, One,”

The door slowly opened, and I watched his boots, as the new year finally begun.

I leaped off the couch and into his arms as I heard him say, “How’s my little bug?” 

Tears poured from my eyes as I watched my mom cry, walking into our hug. 

My happy family is together again, but I know soon we'll be apart,

My daddy is wrapped around my finger, but his country has his heart.