HMCS Huron Association - The Final Inspection

The Final Inspection

The sailor 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, you Sailor. How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek? To the Church have you been true?"

The Sailor squared his shoulders and said, "No Lord, I guess I ain't
Because those of us who sail the seas 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 needn't be so grand
I never expected or had too much, but if you don't I'll understand."

There was silence all around the Throne where Saints had often trod,
As the Sailor waited quietly for Judgment of his God.
"Step forward now, you Sailor. You've borne your burdens well.
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets. You've done your time in Hell."

To all who have served their country at SEA.

The above poem was submitted by shipmate Ray Bradbury. He does not know who the author is, so if anyone knows this information, please notify the Webmaster so proper credit can be extended.

Two e-mails have been received through the website crediting Joshua Helterbran as the author of The Final Inspection. In her e-mail, Joshua's wife states that the poem was originally written for a solidier, as her husband is a soldier with the United States Army. Joshua's mother writes...The Final Inspection was written by my son. I had been going through the net and finding his poem of which I have a copy of his original. He is not a boastful man or proud man, he is just here to serve our country. I am very honored that so many have enjoyed his poem that I feel it is time he takes credit where credit is due. He wrote this poem and finished it while in Italy; now he is with the 224th in Iraq and now back in the states under medical care. Please make sure that his name is on the poem. Sincerely his Mother.

Thanks goes out to Joshua's mother and wife for forwarding this information.