My Favorite Marine mother poem

My very favorite poem is excerpted from "Letters" published in the book "The Warrior" copyright Frances Richey 2008. I recommend - buy the book, it will make you cry.

LETTERS
Last Mother's Day, when he was incommunicado, nothing came.
Three days later, a message in my box; a package, the mail room closed.
I went out into the lobby, banged my fist against the desk.
When they gave it to me, I clutched it to my chest, sobbing like an animal.
I spoke to no one, did not apologize.
I didn't care about the gift.
It was the note I wanted, the salt from his hand, the words.

I believe every Marine mother feels this with each and every letter from their child.