Bonneville America Forums Forums Off Topic Discussion Forums Lounge Happy Memorial Day

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.

Very well said, Ryan!

(...btw, my father served in Patton's Artillery Forces in North Africa, Sicily and the Italian boot, and so it sounds as if there's a possibly he might've fought along side your grandfather)

Excellent post Ryan. As a nation for the most part we currently are a spoiled and lazy lot. Most of the younger generation have no idea what true sacrifice means. As we lay around this weekend eating our cheeseburgers, drinking our beer and watching race cars go around in circles take a moment to thank a veteran for their service and for the privileges we enjoy. When you go to the polls to vote, stop and think your choice through and again thank a veteran for your right.

Well put Ryan, your grandfather had good company. Also, let us not forget this generation of professional military. We often criticize this younger generation, but the professional military of this younger generation must also be appreciated and saluted.

I agree, a most excellent post.

One of my best friends is over in Afghanistan serving, and I think of him often. The funny thing about it is that he is 52 years old, and in better shape than most of the kids over there.

Well said Ryan. I also would like to say thank-you to the servicemen and women who are serving now in some of the worst places on earth. Some are put in danger every day. I agree that the men and women in the service today are very professional. When I was in the Army in the early 70's they still had the lottery. I know these days it's a cliche, but it's a good weekend to remember that Freedom is not Free.

All gave some, some gave all.

Well said Ryan.

Andersonville National Historic Site

Moe thanks for the photos.

Below is and Honor Flight video. Honor Flight wants to get 50,000 views to honor vets this Memorial Day. The video explains Honor Flight and you get to see some old bad ass warriors. Content warning: there's a HD in it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Plgjw_0VHaA

I usually don't like "different" renditions of the Star Spangled Banner, but I liked this.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=c8C7i9kdEf8

This band will be playing Saturday on the USS Wasp to celebrate NYC Fleet Week.

Thanks Mac, had to listen to few of their songs. Lots of feelings there, memories and pride.

I just want to say Thanks to all of you that have served our great county and those of you still serving.

I remember the story about 2nd Lt. Cathey's body being returned home for internment, the book and the news coverage. I had not seen the two photos in this short NY Times article before. On this day, as we remember the fallen, we should also remember the pain of the living they left behind.

http://atwar.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/05/2...inues-to-haunt/

Wow Mac. Great photos AND great sentiments expressed there in that link.

Here's another one I just saw a few minutes ago on my other favorite website, TCM.com, and which I think continues these very thoughts...

great pic!


TCM.com, looked familiar? Then I looked up at my bookmarks.

Yeah. It kinda "brings it all home here", doesn't it?!

(...btw, I know you're an old movie buff also, and so I'm kinda surprised I don't see you over there on the boards)