In a crowd you're bound to spot him,

he's standing so very tall

not too much impresses him;

he's seen and done it all.

His hair is short, his eyes are sharp,

but his smile's a little blue.

It's the only indication

of the hell that he's gone through.

He belongs to a sacred brotherhood,

always faithful 'til the end.

He has walked right into battle

and walked back out again.

Many people think him foolish

for having no regrets

about having lived through many times

others would forget.

He's the first to go and the last to know,

but never questions why,

on whether it is right or wrong,

but only do or die.

He walks a path most won't take

and has lost much along the way,

but he thinks a lot of freedom,

it's a small price to pay.

Yes, he has chosen to live a life

off the beaten track,

knowing well each time he's called,

he might not make it back.

So, next time you see a Devil Dog

standing proud and true,

be grateful for all he's given;

he's given it for you.

Don't go up and ask him

what's it's like to be in a war;

just thank god that it's your country

he's always faithful for.

And thank him too for all the hell

he's seen in that shade of green,

thank him for having the guts

to be a United States Marine.