The Launch

Darkness shrouds the dim lit ramp
As flight crews brief back at the camp.
The missions ahead, although dangerous ones,
Will be done nonetheless for our daughters and sons.
Preflighted planes, as the crew chief stands by,
Are ready and waiting, for planes want to fly.
Crew bus is coming, the power turned on,
The chief has been ready for this all along.
With crew on the plane, they clear number three,
Air is applied, the props spinning free.
All engines running, the crew waits to hear
Word from the tower that they are "All clear."
The chief starts to marshal, the plane starts to move,
All training is over--it's now time to prove.
The crew starts its roll, they hear the word "Go."
Plane is now airborne and climbing out slow.
The ones left behind will pray for success,
Knowing full well they've given their best.
For this is our life, we give it our all
And will always be there to answer the call.