Remembering Veterans Day

On this Veterans Day, I have been thinking of my grandparents and their influence on my life.  I am blessed to be a grandchild of the Greatest Generation... those incredible men and women who experienced the Great Depression and defended freedom serving in World War II.

Papa with my mom, Lynne, as a baby.

As they resumed their lives, they downplayed their incredible service and sacrifice, and I'm sure most hid their emotional scars while physical scars might be more evident.  I can remember climbing up in my Papa's lap and looking at the top of his bald head... he would point out the small dents, one made by a passing bullet, one made by a shovel thanks to his little brother.

The character of Greatest Generation is one of commitment and loyalty.  On a recent trip to Washington DC, I observed a group of older veterans at the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.  Their reverence and respect was palpable and left me in tears thinking how we in subsequent generations would do well to hold onto their values... slow down the busyness of our lives, place family and friends as a priority, adopt an attitude of humility, and commit to pursuits greater than ourselves.

On this Veterans Day, I thank God for my grandparents and being raised in a family where military service was considered the utmost honor.  And, I am thankful to the men, women, and families who continue to serve and sacrifice on our behalf.

Happy Veterans Day and God Bless You!

AV and Ding Merriott - "Grammy" & "Daddy Ding"

 

Betty Ruth Martin "Nanny"
Red Cross, Guam WWII

C.A. Martin, Jr "Papa" (Colonel, USAF)