My Mom and Pop are both WWII veterans. Mom was Navy, Pop was Merchant Marine. My eldest brother was Viet Nam, Navy, Submariner. We have all three flags. I have one brother still living, and memories.
Had an adopted Uncle at Iwo . Still a big Marine the last time I remember seeing him . I don't recal a scar on him . Took cancer 6 mo to take him from 6'2" 210 to 96# of bones .
Lost a kid from Hawthorne Nv my kids went to school with him . Iraqastan . I'm ashamed to say I can't remember his name but he has my thoughts just the same .
Spent some time this afternoon tracking down a fallen Hero I personally served with during the Vietnam "conflict". Great friend and I have pleasant memories of working along side with him in the O.R's @ US Naval Hospital, Guam. He was sent to FMF 1st Marines and was KIA in January 1969. I miss you Buddy.
A step-cousin (proper term?) was killed in Viet Nam. He was a 21 year old Marine corporal. I never met him, and didn't find out about his death till seven or eight years ago.
Ironically, I was in-country the day he was killed, 9-15-68.
I don't know the words to convey my feelings and gratitude to all those who have died in defense of American freedom, so I hope a THANK YOU! and a snappy salute will suffice.
A thank you does well. I was in the Rite-Aid drug store the other day wearing my Viet Nam Vets cap. The clerk thanked me for my service and I told her I was celebrating 50 years of being home this year. She said, "gee that is 25 years older than I am."
Got to see a very good friend of mine today at the range, Gold Star Father. Lost his son in Iraq in '04. Glad I was able to pass on my condolences in person today.