From the recording Up Around The Bend (Download)

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21 STEPS: BALLAD FOR THE UNKNOWNS
(by Kim Moberg | ©2017 Kim Moberg Music ASCAP)

Inspired by those who guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. In keeping with the 21 gun salute, the guard walks 21 steps.
Therefore, each of the two sections of the chorus contain 21 syllables and the meter is 72 beats per minute - the pace of the guard’s steps.

Kim Moberg: lead vocal, acoustic guitar
Jon Evans: upright bass, dobro, tenor guitar, percussion, harmony vocals

Lyrics

He will walk 21 steps
Turn and pause 21 more
For the lives that fell before

He will walk 21 steps
Turn and pause 21 more
For the nameless lost at war

He walks along the black mat
No rank upon his sleeve
Silent sentinel, Company E

Buff strap on his shoulder
Wreath badge upon his chest
The Old Guard salutes
Those who lay at rest

He will walk 21 steps
Turn and pause 21 more
For the lives that fell before

He will walk 21 steps
Turn and pause 21 more
For the nameless lost at war

Three wreaths on the north side
Three wreaths on the south
A World of Memories, Six Battles fought

For you in honored glory
In patriotic laud
You’re name is known, but only to God

He will walk 21 steps
Turn and pause 21 more
For the lives that fell before

He will walk 21 steps
Turn and pause 21 more
For the nameless lost at war

In victor and valor
You offered us your life
A soldier makes the final sacrifice

We know not your name
But we remember all you gave
In every step and pause the proud guard takes

He will walk 21 steps
Turn and pause 21 more
For the lives that fell before

He will walk 21 steps
Turn and pause 21 more
For the nameless lost at war

He will walk 21 steps
Turn and pause 21 more
For the namless lost at war

He will walk 21 steps
Turn and pause 21 more
Til the day we war no more