Dec 07 2008
It’s Pearl Harbor Day
Today is December 7 - the anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. This event ushered the U.S. into the World War that was currently raging.
When I was growing up, remembering what happened during World War II was a big deal - both of my grandfathers fought during that war and I knew several veterans. Many of them have now passed on - including one of my grandfathers. It seems as though today - 67 years later - young Americans are tainted by the war in the Middle East and don’t seem to respect the sacrifices that were - and still are - made for our country.
One of my grandfathers refused to speak about his experiences serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, but my other grandpa told me lots and lots of stories about his time in the Army. He died in 1982 when I was 10 years old and I wish I could remember those stories. He was proud of his service for his country. He was proud that he stood with other American soldiers to protect those who were being harmed and taken advantage of. My husband’s grandfather was somewhat tight-lipped about his Army service. He spent his first night in Europe removing dead bodies from the battle field. His also earned a Bronze Star - but he would never tell anyone in the family what he did to earn it. The story behind that honor went to the grave with him.
I was raised to respect the President and the flag - because I had family members who fought to preserve that respect.
Where has the respect gone?
Where has the respect for our collective history gone?
All that I can say is this: Thank you Veterans - thank you for the hardships you endured. I am sorry for the horrific things you had to see during your service, but I thank you for your courage.
