Memorial Day Memories

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Patriotic Sock Monkey CCMB

If you take a dive into Merriam Webster you will learn that the definition of Memorial Day is as follows, “……the last Monday in May that is a national holiday in the U.S. honoring members of the armed forces who died in wars.”  

My family is quite patriotic.  My daddy is a former marine and Vietnam Veteran and had two brothers who served in the Air Force and Coast Guard.  Their father is a former army officer from World War II and resides in Wisconsin.  My other grandfather desired to serve alongside his own brothers, but the government wanted him to serve elsewhere, that being at the Wausau Paper Mill.  His job there was a very important one since paper was in high demand during the war.

Next I have my brother who is a former Naval officer from the Gulf War.  While I’m sure all the people I’ve mentioned so far had many close calls during their time of service, by the grace of God, I am forever grateful my brother was spared in the ferry accident off the coast of Israel in December of 1990.  I would also like to mention that his son is currently serving in the Marine Corp Reserves.  My list doesn’t end there of people in my life who have served or are planning on serving in the various branches of the armed forces.  For the sake of space, I’ll stop there.

I am not among the many who have immediate family to honor when Memorial Day comes around.  All my people made it through the challenges they faced while serving.  For that I am eternally grateful.  I am so very proud of each one of them for their commitment to making this great nation a safer place and I love them dearly.

Let us remember that Memorial Day is a day set aside to honor those who have served in the armed forces and lost their lives in the midst of their dedication.  These brave people gave the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of this country.  It is because of this my family places an emphasis on Memorial Day.  When Memorial Day comes around, yes, we are honoring those who have gone before us, but for me personally it is also a great reminder for me to say thank you to those who are still serving today, or have served in the past, yet are still with us.

My parents have been proud members of the VFW and American Legion over the years.  These groups of folks are extremely committed to showing honor to all veterans, past and present.  In all honesty, it was my parents dedication to these organizations that helped me understand the importance of military holidays.  They were amazing examples and set high standards for us to follow.   I have gone many times to various service events stopping amidst my busy schedule long enough to join in with others in honoring those who lost their lives while fighting for this country.

MemorialDayBBQCCMBWhile Memorial Day is a day to honor those who are gone, it is also a day where families like to get together and celebrate by having a fellowship and sharing a meal.  I believe as long as we remember what this day is truly about it is certainly a great thing to celebrate this holiday with those who are still living.  And what better way to celebrate than to spend time with those we love and eat some delicious food!

If you are among those who have family members that are honored during this special holiday, I would like to say on behalf of myself and my family how grateful we are for their service and sacrifice. This country wouldn’t be where it is today without the dedication of family members such as yours.  With all our hearts we salute you!

Are you a part of a military family?  What do you find special about Memorial Day?

 

 

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Pam
Pam is a city-girl gone country thanks to her best friend and husband of thirteen years, Johnny. Together, the couple has one son, Caleb {2005.} Pam has four adult children who have blessed her with seven precious grandchildren and the title of Meme’. As you can imagine, she has run the gamut in parenting! Pam has a barn full of chickens, rabbits, and donkeys. Some of her favorites are quality time with Jesus, learning to play golf to keep up with her husband and son, writing when time allows, and, of course, taking care of life on their small ranch. Except for snakes, scorpions, and spiders... her 'cup runneth over.'