Memorial Day Thoughts : Rooftop Views

Rooftop Views

Memorial Day Thoughts

Happy Memorial Day! Today we remember those who served our country in time of war - and those who lost their lives in those wars.

Our family is probably typical. We have several members who have served. My maternal grandfather was in WWI. My father and my husband were both in WWII (yeah, I was a child bride). My mother's brother was killed in France during WWII. And now Mack's grandson is serving in Iraq. We think of him and pray for his safe return every single day.

Memorial Day has also evolved into a day where all those who have gone before are remembered. There is a steady stream of visitors to local cemeteries. It's a time for people to honor their departed loved ones.

We live very close to Ft. Logan National Cemetery - a military cemetery here in the southern part of Denver. Every Memorial Day there is a program of remembrance to which the public is invited. There is a fly over by military aircraft. Local Boy Scouts decorate each grave with a US flag. It's all very moving and patriotic.

I read today that 1500-1800 WWII vets are dying each day in this country and all their memories of that time are going with them. I know I have asked both my father and my husband countless questions about their time of service. Although both will answer direct questions, neither volunteers very much. I suspect most veterans don't.

I continue to ask and try to write down the answers. I think Mack's grandson in Iraq may one day want to know about how it was when his grandfather was in the service. I hope I can have some answers for him.