The Fight for the Laffey DD-724
Written by Daniel Snuffer
Web Site Link to Poem
 

Many a brave sailor rest in sleep from the deep, left only to fond memories.

All stories begin in the end they will end, but not so for our heroes so brave.

I'll tell you a tale about a ship's cruise through hell lives lost and some who are saved!


Laffey set sail her mission to fail, Nippon's sons the feared kamikaze.

The sons of Nippon would go far beyond, no intention to be home again.

As hellcats roll in the battle begin, to turn on the tide of destruction!


Bent on surprise they sought her demise, as betty's and zekes filed the sky.

Japans war it could turn if it's sons it would burn, as they target her sides far away.

They dove like from hell as the clang of the bell, sounded from ship to the crew!


As the sons of Nippon dove straight on, bent on their deadly conclusion.

Time after time without reason or rhyme brave Laffy untouched stood so proud.

But covered by smoke a Kamikaze then broke, into her topside just aft.


Six times kamikaze shook four bombs she then took, holding her own on the sea.

Nippon's sons dove in, and in death they did grin, as fire and smoke trailed away.

The fight still in doubt had luck given out, would Laffey be sailed to the depths?


Then came out a yell we'll fight them still, as Laffey fights on like she's whole.

All stories begin in the end they will end, but would Laffey soon sink in the sea?

Then a shout through the air look boys a corsair, six fifties of death do their work!


No more hits she received to the dockyard reprieved, Laffey would fight yet again.

All stories begin in the end they will end, but not so for our heroes at sea.

I've told you a tale, about a ship's cruise through hell, as for me I will honor her proudly.
 

In honor of the ship and crew DD-724
(The ship that would not die)

I would be proud to have you use my poem in any way you wish. Please send me a link so that I may view it when it is posted.  I am, and always will be proud to have been a small part of the United States Naval Services.

Very Truly Yours,

Daniel Snuffer
USMC (ret)
Web Site Link to Poem

Back to Home Page