Here is the text of a poem posted on a sign near the Rockpile:
THE ROCKPILE
How many have been to this "desert retreat"
To train, as they sweat and curse the heat?
How many have come to play the war games
Does anyone know, is there a record of names?
How many units throughout history
Long before this NTC
Have braved the sun, the wind, the sand,
And all the rigors a soldier must stand?
So many have come and gone on their way
From the time of Patton the present day.
With honor, they fought; some died to preserve
The country the solemnly vowed they would serve.
And so, let's take the time to praise
That unit who came in long past days
To train to fight, but on a lark
Established a tradition by leaving its mark.
Though years have erased their memory
There still remains for all to see
A mute, but living testament to
Those who've passed Fort Irwin through.
The Rockpile stands in glorious hues.
May the memory of each fighting unit infuse
Each soldier with pride that this legacy
Will be carried on by NTC.
W. Self, 1981 |
