Some of us are lucky to have a holiday today. We’ll do nothing or shop sales. So here’s a good reminder this morning that Veterans Day is not just a sale.
My dad is a veteran. When I say we moved a lot when I was a kid, people always ask if we were military. But that wasn’t it. My father served in the U.S. Army long before I was born. The thing is I don’t know much about his service or the military. I guess he was probably drafted and was an enlisted guy.
He served just after the Korean War ended and before the Vietnam War started. He sang in the Army chorus. I know that he lived in Monterey, California. The other soldiers called him Sandy (Not even close to his real name). This is all I know. He has a very handsome photo of himself in uniform. He doesn’t talk much about his time in the military. Except a hilarious story of him driving a jeep even though he didn’t know how to drive. And scaring his sergeant (almost literally) to death.
Recording an elder during a family reunion
One day, my reporter skills kicked in. I took the opportunity to record my Great Uncle Rufus about serving his country. He was drafted during World War II and served on a ship in the Pacific as a cook. He talked about seeing the Philippines, other places in Southeast Asia and Japan. All places I want to visit, but not via warship. As I write this, I realize that I recorded him on cassette tape long ago. I hope that it hasn’t warped and that I can figure out a way to make it a digital file. One of Uncle Rufus’ grandsons followed in his footsteps and is currently in the Army.
I’ve had other uncles and cousins who served in the Marines, Army and the Air Force. Amazing men who sacrificed much personally to allow the rest of us to live freely.
So today I thank all the veterans who have gone through so much working to protect our freedom. Enjoy your day!
Pinkpodster Ponders 
Chatter is welcomed!