memorial day

Today my daughters, Bethany and Mia, and I went to my parent's grave. Our visit, or shall I say our need to visit, was prompted by the events of last weekend. As part of the Millis Girl Scouts, the three of us along with others (many others...Boy scouts, veterans, etc...) went early Saturday morning to place flags on the gravesites of veterans. It was an eye opening ritual as the girls looked at grave markers, determining that there were many soldiers from different wars buried there. Both girls had something to say at each of the graves when they placed an American flag, the most important being "Thank you". Thus began the conversation in which the girls wanted to know a little bit more of their own grandfather. I answered the questions as best as I could...he was in the Navy during World War 2, he worked on an escort ship, I really don't know what he did, but I remember him telling me something about "swabbing the deck" and yes I am fairly certain there will be a flag at his grave. This was a far cry from Dad being captured by cannibals. Wasn't that how my Dad got that awful scar on his face...hadn't he faced death (I think he was being prepared for this tribe's dinner) and barely escaped alive to tell the story. It's likely you have heard the story.

In retrospect, growing up, Memorial Day weekend marked the beginning of the summer and a time in which it was acceptable to wear white (I wear it all year long!). I can remember my Mom, Auntie and Aunt Jennie often going to plant flowers on the graves of beloved family members. It was as important to them then as it was today for my daughters. So, once at the cemetery, Bethany and Mia planted the flowers that they had brought. We walked over to visit some of our other family member's graves. We said our silent prayers. And yes there was a bright, new American flag waving at my Dad's grave. It was one of the reasons for the visit, to be certain that my father and all the other soldiers who had fought (along with all the soldiers who continue to fight) for our freedom, will be remembered today and always.

And of course...to bring flowers to the grandmother they never met.
Happy Memorial Day!