I am proud to come from a long line of men who have served their country with pride. I am who I am today because of their influence and sacrifices.
My grandfather went as a very young man to clean up Hiroshima, he and many others suffered physical ailments that plagued them for the rest of their lives. He also worked on modifications for airplanes that saved the lives of many men - and would have made him a rich man in the civilian world!
My father was drafted into a war that no one understood. His duty included guarding the bodies of the fallen. Daddy came back to a country that didn't recognize or appreciate his sacrifice. He died when I was a teenager from agent orange exposure. I wish he could have been here to meet his grandchildren.
My husband, lovingly referred to as "the Soldier" on the blog, is the most amazing man I know. He joined the National Guard in his 'old age' (okay, he's not
that old) and has since served two tours in Iraq. I can't wait for him to come home.
There are many more in my family tree:
My great, great grandfather George Howe was in the fife and drum corps as a boy and was imprisoned at Andersonville during the Civil War.
My great Uncle Will was a decorated veteran of the Spanish American War.
My Uncles Daniel & Andrew both served in the Army.
Both of my husband's grandfathers served in WWII.
My brother-in-law spent many years in the Marine Corp and just made Major in the Air Force (yes, we forgave him...)
As a Military Wife, I do know that they are not the only ones who serve.
My grandmother is a strong woman who traveled across barren land, in a convoy - with small children - to be with my grandpa in Alaska.
My mother took care of my father for many years while he was ill and finished raising three children alone after he died.
My children sacrifice on a daily basis. They don't have their daddy at birthdays or ball games or holidays. And they do so with pride.
Today we remember and honor those who give so much.
I am thankful for all of you.
Love,
