Memorial Day

For many years Memorial Day was the time one or more of my kids marched in the parade with the band. They stopped at our towns memorial and then to our local cemetery where the band played Amazing Grace.

Amazing Grace was my dad’s favorite song. It was played at his funeral and for 18 years I have associated the song with his funeral. One day as I drove Kate to campus she said to me “Momma West Point isn’t too far away, what if I dated a cadet?” I do believe at the time I was filled with a bunch of negativity.

Well my friends you know the story, she met her cadet and fell in love. She has been involved in Army life for almost four years and I am amazed at how she has adapted.

This weekend she married her Army guy. They stood at the Altar and both emotionally declared their vows. They both know the future is uncertain and they will go and do as the Army says.

Yesterday I talked to both of the Best Men. On is a captain and one is a Lieutenant. Both are West Point graduates. They were so “normal” and had so much fun at the wedding. The next day I spoke to them about their jobs and their bases. I was told “I can’t promise anyone I won’t get hurt. That is up to God”. Wow! How much faith does it take to make that statement.

This weekend I watched soldiers and cadets. All are willing to put their life on the line for me and for our country. My daughter willingly married into this. I have no idea this feeling of service. I have no idea what the Momma's of these soldiers feel. More and more though I appreciate not only their sacrifice but also the fun loving, spiritual filled people who are willing to take on the mission to serve our nation.