Remembering Veterans

Posted: Friday, November 10, 2006 by Travis Cody in
8

I thanked veterans today. I shook their hands. I told them how much I appreciate their service and sacrifices.

I thought about my four buddies, lost in service to their country. I cursed the 17 year old kid who chopped my knees out from under me on a football field, and kept me from being there for my buddies. And then I forgave that kid.

I thought about my uncle, who served in Vietnam. I thought about my father who was the odd Marine out and stayed on the ground, watching in horror as the chopper he was supposed to be on spiralled into the ground, killing every last Marine on board. I thought about my stepdad who protected nuclear facilities as an Air Force sergeant. I thought of my grandfather who lied about his age and sailed with the Merchant Marine during WWII.

I thought about my stepdad's 4 uncles and his father, who all miraculously made it home from WWII, especially the one who was captured on Bataan and spent the war as a POW.

I thought about my cousin, a young Marine veteran of Iraq suffering the loss of his buddies to an IED, and wondering why he got to come home and they didn't.

I thought about my ancestors who fought on both sides of the Civil War. And about those who fought for American Independence.

I thought about how lucky my family has been, to have so many men serve and all come home.

I thought about other families who have not been so lucky.

If you haven't done it yet, I encourage you to visit http://anndisluggage.blogspot.com/.

Remember Veterans tomorrow and throughout the weekend. Thank them. It is their sacrifice and service that makes us free.

Peace.

8 comments:

  1. Anonymous says:
    10 November, 2006 18:58

    Travis,

    Thank you so much for recognizing our Veterans. My dad was on an aircraft carrier during the Vietnam War, and I am always surprised at how much it affects me to think about that. He never saw action on the enemy lines, but he easily could have, just the fates saw fit to place him elsewhere.

    I am so thankful for all of our men and women who choose to stand up to that line each and every day. They are true to life heroes, and I am honored that they choose to fight for me, my family, my friends, and all who value freedom.

    God bless the troops!

    Tina

  1. Anonymous says:
    11 November, 2006 03:45

    Excellent post as usual Trav.Thank you

  1. Anonymous says:
    11 November, 2006 04:01

    nice Trav, hugs

  1. Anonymous says:
    11 November, 2006 07:19

    Thank you Trav.

    Both my Grandfathers were in WWII in the Philippines. My paternal Grandfather died as a POW, just 3 days before the war ended. My maternal Grandfather was shot through the chin, and the bullet exited his left cheek leaving him blind in his left eye. He is still alive today, and I am thankful I have the chance to know and love him.

    We fight private wars in our own lives daily. Sacrifices are made. But the wars where human sacrifice is made never make sense...

    I am praying for all those who are overseas for a quick return home...

    Gail

  1. Anonymous says:
    11 November, 2006 10:31

    From the mind of Meribah:

    A beautiful post, Trav. Thank you for sharing.

  1. Julie says:
    11 November, 2006 18:28

    Keep thinking Honey..and keep remembering. This is what makes you who you are.

  1. Anonymous says:
    12 November, 2006 04:37

    Veteran's Day has more meaning to you than to some folks. Thank you to all of your friends and family who haved served, and are serving our country.

    Your Adoring Fan
    -Lynn

  1. Anndi says:
    13 November, 2006 07:54

    Many men in my family have served in the armed forces... and Remembrance Day means the world to me. Thanks Travis..

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