Happy Memorial Day

My dad was a World War II veteran.  He served in the U.S. Army.  He came home with a Purple Heart, a Good Conduct Medal and a European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with one Silver Battle Star, among other medals. He rarely talked about his war experience, choosing instead to keep those memories hidden deep inside him.  Among his belongings when he died were items from his military service, including his Honorable Discharge paper, which reported that he had served in Normandy, Northern France, Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe.  He had been inducted into service for our country on March 16, 1942 and was honorably discharged on October 13, 1945.  His Honorable Discharge citation said, "This certificate is awarded as a testimonial of Honest and Faithful Service to this country."  And indeed he did give faithful service.  One not prone to argument, let alone battle, war must have been a very difficult thing for my dad.  He saw atrocities and battles that he couldn't talk about afterward. Yet, he served with honor and came home a stronger man. We owe much to all of the men and women who have made supreme sacrifices in service to our country.  May they always be remembered with respect for all they have done for us.  With special love and memories of you, Dad.