Memorial Day Tribute

Memorial Day is a time to reflect and remember those who have gone before us to give us the freedom that we enjoy today. Steve and I watched the National Memorial Day Concert on PBS on Sunday night and appreciated the music and stories. I LOVE listening to patriotic songs and always get the goose bumps when I hear them. Especially when I hear "Taps." The stories brought tears to our eyes, too. I cannot imagine how hard it is to serve our country in the military but can only get a glimpse of it. We do have several veterans in our family. My grandfather on my mother's side served in WWI (Army?), my father-in-law served in the Korean War in the Army, my own husband served in the Navy, and our son, Chris, served in the U.S. Marine Corps (and spent 8 months in Iraq). When I see someone in uniform, I try to thank them for what they have done. A smile or simple ASL sign saying "thank you" speaks volumes. Anyone can read and understand "thank you" on your lips even if they can't hear you. Or if you see someone in uniform at a restaurant or diner, pay for their meal. Someone once did that for Chris when he came back from Iraq and he has never forgotten that thoughtful gesture made by an unknown person.

My father-in-law passed away three years ago on Memorial Day. Before I got my first cochlear implant. How I wish I could sit with him and listen to his voice one more time. He was a GREAT storyteller. He didn't talk much about his time in the Army or the Korean War. But, I know it affected him mentally and physically. He was also a quiet man but when he spoke, you listened. Thank you, Dad. We love and miss you.

Below is a video worth watching. . . it is close captioned, too!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6A393E3wF-o

May God Bless America.