A Sober Veterans Day
Today is a day of remembrance, honor, and respect for those who fought for this nation and our continued freedom. I've read quite a bit about WWII and the Vietnam War because those are the wars that have closely touched my life with a grandfather, Armando, who fought in WWII with the U.S. Army Air Corps. stationed in the AÇORES and an uncle, Louis, who does not talk much about his time in Vietnam, but was with the U.S. Army in unit 218. Both men were and are proud of their service from what I can tell, though neither has discussed the actual events they witnessed with me.
The above picture is how I will remember my grandfather who fought among others of the so-called Greatest Generation and died earlier this year. Unfortunately, he was never able to visit and see the WWII Memorial that commemorated his efforts and those of the other veterans. I've visited the memorial on many occasions and am always awed when I see members of that generation tearing up and sharing memories with their family and friends.
While none of my cousins have gone into the military, I know they were inspired by my grandfather in many other ways, as was I. Today is the perfect day to honor these inspiring people and their contributions to our freedom.
Please also visit today's post at War Through the Generations.
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Also, please check out this heart-warming story about communities finally welcoming Vietnam Veterans home from the New York Times.