Dunkirk

They heard the call so far away
A plea to stand so tall
Where brave soldiers fought and died
Little ships to save them all
 
Along the Thames, from seaside bay
The steamers with no fear
This was their finest hour, their day
In glory now to share
 
On Dunkirk's beaches living hell
Where bombers tried to scare
The little boats defied the shell
And landed over there
 
Sandcastles and piers so far behind
These men were brave and good
Came to sands that were not kind
Because they thought they should
 
There were not other ships enough
To fetch their Island kin
How hard the crossing, ever rough
A miracle they win
 
And down the ages past, they sail
The paddle steaming fleet
Brave and battered crews prevail
Snatched glory from defeat