21 days left...Veterans

It's November 11th - Veteran's Day.  How could I not be thankful for these folks?

My dad served in World War II, and like so many of his generation, he discounted his contributions, because he never saw a battlefield.  He was an airplane mechanic in England much of his tenure, which is something he was very well suited for as I have no doubts that he made double sure any piece of equipment he was responsible for was absolutely safe for the pilot and crew.

All of my uncles on my mom's side also served in WWII, and we heard stories of their service this past summer at the family reunion.  Do those stories ever get old?

My brother served 20 years before retiring from the Navy.  He served time onboard ship.  He saw many places all over the world; and even after retiring, he continued to support military training by working on flight simulators.

Grandpa R served in the Air Force - I believe - but he never really talked about it much.  Well, let's face it. Grandpa R was a quiet man who never really talked about much.  But he was served at his graveside with military honor flag and Taps - and it still gets me to this moment with tears as I type it.  There is just something so poignant about this ceremony that reminds us that individual service is just that - individual.  Each life given in service is unique and precious.

I wish I had pictures of these gentlemen, especially of them in uniform, but alas, I do not.  All I've listed above are family members. Like you, I have multiple friends and sons and daughters of friends who have served or are actively serving. Again, each life given in service unique and special with a story all their own.  And I stand in gratitude as I remember each of them.

Today is one of those days each year - Memorial Day, Independence Day and Veterans Day - when we are reminded as a nation that we are indebted to those who serve to protect freedom.  When we are reminded that freedom is never free.  When we are reminded that the price of freedom is always blood - be that spiritual freedom or political freedom.  It always has been blood and always will be blood.  We do well to remember these.

I love that many restaurants offer free meals to veterans today.  If I had enough pie baked, I would do likewise.  Maybe someday...maybe someday...