Until 2004, I never gave much thought to World War II or veterans. I studied the war in school, heard stories all of my life and have known many people who served, but still, it was not something I thought about. Yes, I was guilty of taking freedom for granted.
In the spring of ’04, the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. was dedicated and opened to the public. That April, my Uncle Dude had the opportunity to visit his memorial and after witnessing his reaction, my thoughts were changed forever. When Dude returned from his trip and spoke of the memorial, his lips quivered, his face scrunched and tears filled his eyes. From that moment on, I paid attention to history and put forth the effort to learn more about World War II.
One year later, a man who lives seven miles from my house, started a nonprofit organization called, Honor Flight Network. The mission is to take World War II Veterans to see their memorial in D.C. Remembering Dude’s reaction I was deeply touched and began to support the cause in different ways. I am now a full time volunteer with Honor Flight and I can honestly say, the rewards of this experience are greater than any paycheck I could receive!
To learn about our country’s history from books is one thing, but to hear about it from those who actually made it, is by far, a life lesson! When I spend the day with these men and women visiting various memorials, I hear first hand what the war was like and its impact on the world. Some of it is hard for me to comprehend.
This past Saturday, while looking at the wall of stars representing those who did not return after the war, a man in my group told me he arrived in Normandy, France, two days after D-Day. His job was “to remove the bodies.” As he spoke, he stared past me, his voice was low and his thoughts were racing in his mind. I saw and heard him reliving that time of his life. When he finished with the details of his story, both of us were in tears.
Since being with Honor Flight, I have had the privilege of meeting so many from the different branches of service and I’ve learned the true meaning of the word “sacrifice.” A Veteran is someone who at one point in his or her life wrote a blank check made payable to The United States of America for an amount of, up to and including his or her life.
To all of you who have served or are currently serving our military, I want to say, “Thank you!” Because of your sacrifices, I am able to live my life of freedom. I am truly grateful. God bless you.
Do you know someone who served our country? Have you? Please share with us so we can be proud together.
i find it many places but no one is credited with it.
Thanks.
Leave a Comment