The last inspection!

The Marine stood and faced God, Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining, Just as brightly as his brass.

"Step forward now, young Marine, How shall I deal with you?
Have you turned the other cheek and to My Church been true?"

The soldier squared his shoulders and said, "No, Lord, I guess I ain't.
Because those of us who carry guns, Can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays, and at times my talk was tough.
And sometimes I've been violent, because the world is awfully rough.

But, I never took a penny, that wasn't mine to keep...
Though I worked a lot of overtime, when the bills got just too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help, though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God, forgive me, I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place, among the people here.
They never wanted me around, except to calm their fears.

If you've a place for me here, Lord, It need not be so grand.
I never expected or had too much, but if you don't, I'll understand.

There was a silence all around the throne, where the saints had often trod.
As the Marine waited quietly, for the judgment of his God.

"Step forward now, young Marine, You've borne your burdens well.
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets; you’ve done your time in Hell."