BASEFORCE

The deployment goodbye can be absolutely gut wrenching. The uncertainty of war, the magnitude of the mission, the length of the deployment and the separation from loved ones all press heavy on the hearts and minds of those involved. The long embrace suggests it could be the last time they see each other. But that long goodbye is also filled with the hope that, if all goes well, this will be the last time such a mission will ever be needed again.

Words and Music by John Denver Copyright 1968
Reworked with permission by James Lippitt 2003
Produced by Al Miller

All your bags are packed; you're ready to board,
You're standing there outside the door.
My stomach's turning, I hate to say goodbye.
The night has fallen as the plane departs.
I hug my family as the crying starts,
Don't worry now we'll hold our heads up high.

    CHORUS:
    PLEASE CALL ME AND WRITE TO ME,
    SAY THE WORDS THAT COMFORT ME.
    TELL ME NOW YOU'RE GONNA BE OKAY.
    YOU'RE LEAVING ON A JET PLANE,
    DON'T KNOW WHEN YOU'LL BE BACK AGAIN.
    I'LL SEE YOU SOON SOMEDAY.


    CHORUS (repeat)

As we head back home, I'm feeling numb,
Holding my faith that you will come.
Yet thankful for your sacrificing way.
Every night I'll dream of your return,
And wish one day the world will learn
Ever lasting peace so you'll be home to stay…

    CHORUS (repeat)
    + SOMEDAY!
    YOU'RE LEAVING ON A JET PLANE
    DON'T KNOW WHEN YOU'LL BE BACK AGAIN
    I'LL SEE YOU SOON SOMEDAY.
    YOU'RE LEAVING! (ON A JET PLANE)
    YOU'RE LEAVING! (ON A JET PLANE)
    YOU'RE LEAVING! (ON A JET PLANE)
    I'LL SEE YOU SOON!
    YOU'RE LEAVING  (Jet Swoosh!)