The Parade had formed

 

They rushed out into the brisk morning air

in brilliant sunlight brimming with life

A dark cloud in the west threatened rain

as they assembled in lines of precise regimentation

Dark blue uniforms with white attachments

cap badges and buttons glistened in the sun

Highly polished boots, red lanyards, a force

highly decorated with an array of medals

Some tall with square shoulders, others plump

short or thin they all caught the eye

In symetrical lines for rehearsed drill

the parade square was a sight to behold

Then the band struck up as shining brass

instruments sounded

Flags of various nations and regimental colours

flew side by side

An array of military splendour,

the parade had begun

Spectators stood in awe of this spectacle

as the dullness of life was held in abeyance

I saw not the soldiers nor their parade

rather a celebration of summer´s arrival

Flowers had come to life in a splash of colour

girded by green lawns under a summer´s sun