MEMORIAL DAY...A TIME TO REFLECT

For the first time in almost 20 years, I find myself at home to celebrate Memorial Day. I am at a loss of how to spend rest of this weekend because it's normally a regular working weekend.

I have had the opportunity to take a look at my family's proud military history & reflect upon that. My Grandfather and Great-Great Uncle were in Europe for World War 2.  My Grandfather was a part of the group that cut the locks off of the gates of the Dachau concentration camp.  He has a VFW hall named after him in Niagara Falls, NY.  My Uncle sacrificed an eye in one of the many battles he fought in.  They both have left behind a legacy that hopefully will never be forgotten.

My father served two tours in Vietnam.  He was just an 18 year old kid that was forced to grow up quickly amid chaos & destruction.  He told me stories about his buddies being wounded & how he would try to save them.  He was a field medic.  I can only imagine the horrors that he had to witness.  The orders for his second tour came hours after his son was born.  That must have been a heart-wrenching scene as he said good-bye to my Mother & newborn son, not knowing if he would ever see them again.

My two Aunts also served.  They both were in Germany during the Cold War.  I have one that is still here with me today & the other lives on in my heart.

My brother was in the opening of Desert Storm.  He told me stories that I soon won't forget.

My cousin just returned from Iraq.  I haven't really had the chance to ask him about his experiences but hopefully one day I will.

I know that Memorial Day is a time to honor those who have served our Country & made the ultimate sacrifice.  I would also like to take a moment to recognize & remember friends & co-workers that I have made thru the years that are no longer here.  Scottey, Jules, Meg, Danny, Kenny, Floyd, & Jeannette...I miss ya'll every day that I wake up.  I look forward to the day we are reunited.

I hope everyone enjoys their holiday weekend.

God Bless our Troops!! :)