Veteran's Day

[jamespowers]

Amen to that! Freedom is not free.
I only regret that I have only one WWII vet left in the family to thank. So to all those out there who fight or have fought for US and the US---thanks.

Regards to all,

J

 

[Gershomite]

Often our memories take on different meanings, and have the ability to teach various lessons as we grow older, if we can but listen. As a young Marine, I was stationed at the Marine Barracks in Washington D.C. where I was the NCOIC for B Company Firing Party details at Arlington National Cemetery. I had many opportunities then to witness fallen comrades being laid to rest, without fully realising the enormity of their sacrifice.

This Veteran’s Day is an occasion to remember and reflect upon the contributions of those who have all or part of their lives to our country; honoring those who serve and the memories of those who have served. With your indulgence, I would in their honor share the following excerpt from a recent submission to The Marine Corps Magazine:

"Of the objects that trigger memories, pictures can evoke the strongest response. Among my favorites is one of the few remaining snapshots of my time in the Marine Corps. Captured therein is an image of myself in the Dress Alpha uniform of an 8th and Eye Marine.

I have kept this photo specifically for the memories it calls to mind. It is one of the reminders of my status as a former Marine. It is a picture taken immediately prior to drawing my sword from the armory in preparation for a funeral detail at Arlington National Cemetery, where I was to lead a firing party in the 21-gun salute over a deceased Marine; the first of many in my four years there.

That picture, and resultant memories, brings forth certain sadness – not with recollection of the solemnity of the events I experienced, rather, that I could not feel then the emotion which I do now in reflection. At the time, it was simply a job, the beauty and poignancy of the moment lost to youth.

The most vivid memories are those of the cemetery itself. The faces of those who mourned changed, as did their numbers, with each detail; but Arlington was the same, a constant.

The chapel guarding the entrance, the rolling hillocks, the trees, and of course, row upon measured row of weathering headstones stretching out in every direction, wearing whatever mantle the season dictated, never changed. Ever ready to provide a dignified place of lasting rest among peers for those who had served, Arlington seemed timeless.

The sight of the body bearers in their fluid slow-step, the feel my sword out and back, calling the firing party to the ready, sharp crack of the volleys and smell of gun smoke, the haunting notes of Taps, and carefully folded flag given to a relative all return in a rush as I gaze at the picture. (I believe I still have the black armband we donned as we entered the gates of the cemetery around here somewhere.)

Ceremony completed, we would march back to our transport, the appearance of somberness belied our thoughts; we were going back to our lives. Yet the cemetery awaits our one last visit, to give place among those fallen comrades who silently welcome us.

With a sigh, I place the picture back upon the mantle, feeling somewhat cheated. What would my life have been like with a greater awareness and comprehension of the whole rather than fragments? I resolve that I will fully appreciate the moment, before the moment arrives…when I am there once more and cannot hear the shots ring out."

L. Wayne Delaney


Dedicated to all of those who have placed their lives in harm's way for their country: Thank you.

Gersh

 

[jamespowers]

Gersh,

The article you posted reminded me very much of my father's funeral. He did not die in combat but here in the states and not related to battle injury. He was a member of the VFW and they request a detail that was mentioned. It was really quite a ceremony and made me realize what my father had done in Korea all those years ago that the military would still send out men to honor even a buck sergeant long past his service days.

Regards to all,

J