A Memorial Day Tribute

SUNDAY MEMORIES

Judy Wills

Growing up, I only had a small nodding acquaintance with the military. I knew that my Dad had served in World War 1 as a medic, because he refused to carry a weapon. And my Mother worked in accounting at Kirtland AFB in town. She would occasionally bring home some of those young airmen that she worked with. They were usually quite homesick, and she was attached to them. But that was my only connection with the military.

Until I met Fred.

He was in Albuquerque to attend the University of New Mexico (UNM) (a story in itself), but his family was far away in Japan. I learned that his Dad was a military chaplain, and that they had traveled the world.

About the time Fred and I married and moved to Fort Worth, Texas, his family moved to Bossier City, Louisiana (Barksdale AFB) – near Shreveport – just about a four-hour drive for us. We visited them as often as we could on weekends. That was my first real taste of the military life – staying in their quarters on base.

But it wasn’t until Fred actually went into the Air Force that I came to know about true military life – we began to live it, ourselves. I began to see how dedicated men and women were to serving and protecting their country. I began to see how this country that I love so much could possibly be speaking German – or Japanese – if it weren’t for those who were willing to give their lives for our freedom through both World Wars.

I became fiercely patriotic. And I also became fiercely proud of my husband, his father, my brother, and our father – for the contributions they all made to our freedoms.
When Fred’s Dad died, the military funeral was absolutely breath-taking.

The flag was folded and presented, with a salute.

We have that folded flag in a case. It is a constant reminder to us of what the military life means to the men and women of our armed forces. I know that not all military personnel are as dedicated to this country – but I could probably venture a guess that at least 95% of them are willing to give up their lives to protect our freedoms.

Have you ever visited the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington Cemetery in D.C.?

Seeing it, and the Marine guard, is one of the most moving and emotional experiences for me. I’m so glad that this country honors it’s military as it does. It shows that we still have “heart” and love of country. And I am so grateful that God has allowed me to live in this free country.

May God bless the U.S.A.

Psalm 147:7
Sing to the Lord with grateful praise

Tags: #Patriotic, Christian bloggers, Faith, Memorial Day, Military, Military Life