As a young man living in western Massachusetts, Memorial Day was not a day for picnics, boating and barbecues. It was a time when we honored those who fought in, and were killed fighting for this country. We honored our veterans.
Parades were military focused.... I remember the Gold Star Mothers... the wives and mothers who had lost husbands/sons in the war.
I remember the veterans marching; those too fragile, driven in open convertibles. It was a time to visit the local cemetery.... a reminder of the devastation of war. At the same time, we visited the graves of our loved ones; to make certain the monuments were clean, intact and maybe lay a wreath on the headstone as a sign of respect to a life that once was.
I find it amazing that thousands will line up at his grave on the anniversary of Elvis Presley's death, weeping and laying flowers.... as thousands do for Princess Diana; yet many neglect the resting places of their own.
Please don't ever let me become like everybody else.......
Today, I miss the good ole days!
4 comments:
Thank you. I spent too long as the Sergeant Major's wife and dealing with "my boys" not to appreciate this post, even after the marriage is over.
I agree with you. We attend a memorial service every year on Memorial Day. This year we live in a different state. There will still be a memorial service nearby, but with there being an army base so close, the paratroopers will be jumping and opening a huge American flag. I've been told that the service is really nice. They will be honoring the vet's and their families and, of course, special honor will be given those who have died and those families.
thank you for this, dondon...
peace...
'
Indeed, Don... I miss them as well.
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