As a new Mother of a Marine, my thoughts take a different turn on Veterans Day. I think it’s because it’s now close to home and I find myself worrying in advance of what lies ahead. The potential of the biggest sacrifice that can be made for our country is now personal. It’s my sons. Yes, plural. My youngest son, still in high school decided that the United States Marine Corps is his calling.
Memories of my Father are particularly strong now. He was a veteran of World War II and the Korea Conflict. He never spoke of war, not that I can remember, and his service papers were lost when we arrived home on New Years at Times Square. So, I have sent to the National Personnel Records Center for his service records to share with his grandchildren.
I’m also thankful for living in small town community with Midwestern traditions. Unlike other parts of the country, our schools take time to honor our veterans by inviting them to the school and honoring them with celebrations. I attended two such programs today, one at the high school and the other at the elementary.
Lieutenant Colonel Rick Gray was the speaker from the Nebraska National Guard. The choir and band sang and played in honor of those who bravely served in the armed forces past and present. It was very moving to listen to over 125 elementary children sing “Bless Our Troops”. It’s something I won’t forget anytime soon.
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