Generic

I am prey to the unyielding Sun 
here in this open field 
void of shade 
holding precious pieces 
untouched for 140 years 
200 acres of Virginia farmland beneath my feet 
where bullets flew 
where strong men screamed 
and the soil looked as if it had rained blood 
death can come quickly or painfully slow 
 
A soldier rips the Eagle breastplate from his chest 
and throws it to the ground where I am standing 
and here in the sweltering heat 
of a calm June afternoon 
I pull it from its resting place 
no longer shining 
140 years removed 
from the failing heart 
beneath it

The Dig