As we head into the long, overly commercialized, American holiday of Memorial Day, please take a few moments to remember those who gave their lives so that those who came afterwards could have a better life. My maternal Grandfather fought in 3 wars, alongside the likes of Clark, Patton, and Westmoreland, was wounded through the stomach 3 times during the Italian campaign of World War 2, and retired a decorated US Army Lt. General. He was an artillery man, a paratrooper, and eventually a division commander in Vietnam. He never once asked me to thank him for what he did, and he spoke very little about his experiences. Unfortunately, I watched him die a broken man, suffering from alcoholism among other things. I remember our part-time housekeeper, who helped raise me often say, "too much war" when describing my grandfather. Were he here with me today, I am certain he would not hesitate to sign-up again, as he did in 1938. Now that I am older, I would like to add to that very savvy observation, "too much sacrifice."
I always fall back on those smarter than myself, there are many, during times like these. Times that deserve the highest levels of reflection. I fancy this quote by the recently departed Andy Rooney, who said of D-Day,
"If you ever feel there is nothing but suffering and evil in the world, go to the American Cemetery at Normandy. See what one group of men did for another."
Since I am American, I quote American sacrifice more easily, however, Happy Memorial Day to all those around the world, who have suffered and died so that I can be free.
Last edited by Ryan7771; 05/25/2012 10:58 AM.
