Day 1463

Today I had the true privilege of attending a Memorial Day Ceremony at Riverfront Memorial Park. It was a meaningful program with amazing music, messages and proud veterans. When the North suburban Concert Band played songs from each branch of the service, those who stood for their song glowed with pride.

I noticed a few things as I sat and observed…

There were a variety of ages in the audience, but many senior citizens were there.

The crowd was beyond respectful as the messages and music were shared.

During the wreath-laying portion, the families, who had lost a loved one, broke my heart.

The audience seemed to be patriotic and serious by nature.

The sky was blue, the breeze delightful and most of us found it hard to relate to the sacrifices we were hearing about.

Parents had lost children, children had lost parents, loved ones were missing in action…so many had given their lives so that I could sit safely outside and enjoy a program honoring them. Most who served never met me, yet they joined the military to protect the freedom we all enjoy. Humbling…

Mac was in Vietnam, Dad was in WWII and other loved ones joined the service to protect those of us who enjoy the freedom of this country. To those I hold close and those I have never met, I owe a big debt of gratitude… not only today, but every single day.

After a quick trip to the cemetery to pay our respects to my folks and family, we returned home. While taking out the pups, I heard a rumble in the sky… four WWII vintage airplanes flew right over the house. Somehow, I knew it was Dad’s way of saying, “We did it because we love America. We served to protect those at home we love.”