“Time blurs the edges” it’s said
Phantoms screaming overhead
Low and fast, I blink, they’re gone
On the beach, Vung Tau, seventy-one.

Curse the heat and curse the sweat
That runs in rivers down my back
Curse the pimple, curse my F 1
Curse everyone carrying guns.

I swore I’d never again be seen
In anything coloured Jungle Green
Day Glo Red Cross, tarmac ground
The fruits of war, there are found.

“Calling Vampire”, chopper heard
Our Dust Off crew from stores emerge
“You’re not needed” we turn back
Drink some beer and hit the sack.

“Jesus Loves You” painted sign ¹
Ageless message, very fine
“If you will but believe
All your problems He’ll relieve”

Ernie Dingo, on Getaway
Stood on that beach the other day
“Aussie Troops were here” he said
“Enjoy the resorts they’ve built instead”