VETERAN’S DAY
Military service runs pretty deep on both sides of my family and my husband’s family. This is a photo of eight men in my immediate family who have done just that. It includes both of my grandfathers, my father, my father-in-law, my husband, my uncle, my cousin, and my brother-in-law. These men served in WW2, Korea, Vietnam and the War in Iraq/Afghanistan.
This picture doesn’t include extended family who also served….second cousins, great uncles and many other family members on my husband’s side, but we honor and celebrate each of them today!
My husband joined the US Navy in 2002. The events of 9-11 propelled him forward in his desire to serve his country. I’m so grateful to have married someone who cares so deeply for our country and its well being. He reminds me of my dad in lots of ways, but especially in that respect. I also love that he is able to teach our boys the true meaning of sacrifice, bravery and pride.
Last weekend, Jack’s Cub Scout Pack did a service project at the Pike’s Peak National Cemetery. They cleaned the headstones in the cemetery ahead of Veteran’s Day. I love that Sean (hubby) initiated this project, I think in some ways to honor my dad and all of the servicemen who’ve gone before us.
My Dad served in Vietnam from 1968-1972. He was a pathfinder, an elite group of 3-4 men who would parachute into a combat zone to determine the most practical landing zones and withdrawal routes. Their motto was “First in….Last out,” which meant they stayed through any combat, cleared the area completely and were the last to be extracted.
My dad developed Ischemic Heart Disease (Congestive Heart Failure) due to his exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam and passed away from these service related injuries in February 2011.
It breaks me that neither my husband, sister-in-law or any of the grandkids got to meet Grandpa Robert, but you often wouldn’t know it by listening to them. I love that his life and legacy continues to live on, especially through the grandkids. I’m super grateful that Jack has my dad’s name and Korben shares his birthday.
