Tuesday, November 11, 2008

THANK YOU VETERANS



I thought that since today is Veteran's Day I would like to honor the veterans in my life. Thank you Scott for serving our country in the army. It wasn't an easy family life having you away during basic training while we had a new baby. It was difficult raising a young family while you were off on cycle support. It was a sacrifice you were willing to make to earn money to pay for school so that you could better provide for our family. I am forever grateful for that sacrifice. Sure, it was hard at times but we also received blessings during your service in the military. We were stationed at Ft. Benning, GA and we lived across the river in Phenix City, AL. We had the most wonderful ward I have ever been in. We were welcomed with open arms and we were surrounded by love and support. Your service in the army gave us the money we needed for you to attend nursing school. Thank you so much for your service not only to our nation but to our family. I love you.



My father in law enlisted in the Navy and he served in WWII. He was assigned to the USS Portland, a heavy cruiser. The ship was stationed at Pearl Harbor. The day before the bombing of Pearl Harbor the Portland was sent out to sea. After the bombing the ship returned to the harbor. Dad said "It changed a lot. There were lots and lots of ships sunk there in the harbor. It looked bad." Dad was an electrician in the Navy. He was assigned to operate the ships searchlights. Later in the war he was transferred to be a main battery electrician. He made repairs on the biggest gun on the ship. His ship was hit by a torpedo. The impact blew a 20 foot hole into their quarters. They slept on deck that night. Several of his buddies lost their lives that day. They had a buriel at sea for those that died during the attack. Dad served in the United States Navy for six and a half years. He earned sixteen major battle stars and a presidential unit citation. Thank you Dad for serving your country and protecting our freedoms. We are all grateful for your service. We love you Dad.

2 comments:

The Jackson Clan said...

Um I could be wrong but is that Grampa J.

The Jackson Clan said...

He had a beard how come I didn't know about this. Anyhoo how is Grampa J. I hear he is not doing his best tell him sally says hi and that I miss him. So anything new with you?