Never gone, Always forgotten

I've had plenty of "good friends" who always never had the mettle to keep in touch. We were always close and supportive when we could see each other most days, but as soon as I left or they did, they act as though we never brothers in arms or the best of friends. I've put my life in danger to make sure they were the ones that got to go home and never a thank you. I've taken their duty or did their work so they could go on a tour. My old friend I write about is that guy. The selfless man who did everything since I/he didn't have that much of a social life so they could go enjoy some time off. I/he was the one to go to the boss and say,"Hey chief, I don't have much of a life outside of work, let so and so off and I'll do their stuff. No worries." This was always followed by a smile and a nod. "You're a good man, you'll be a great chief someday. Your workshop will love you, but remember, they'll take it for granted." I nodded and gave a short laugh. "Oh, I know, I'm the boss, and never the friend. They'll never understand what it means to give up your free time in the way I do. I work more than I relax." "It'll kill you, working this hard, you know." Chief added on as he pulled up his backpack to his shoulder as he walked through the door. "It'll kill me if I don't. It's a cruel, double sided blade." "Don't I know it bud." He pulls his shades down and turns the corner.