(A/n: The title is a French term for the unwritten code of conduct that aristocrats in feudal times were expected to follow. While they believed God had given them superior status, wealth, power and privileges, they were obliged to provide good leadership and treat their inferiors with kindness and charity. But sometimes nobility comes naturally to individuals who are little remembered except by those who knew them.)

Noblesse Oblige

He was lean and mean
He wore the green
Of a United States Marine

But he had style
And a cocky smile
That made it seem worthwhile

Until a grenade took him apart
And transplanted his heart
With a surgeon's art

Now that's long behind me
In bars you'll find me
Drinking to remind me

Of that lean mean Marine
Wondering if he's still combat keen
On his side of the green.