MEMORIAL DAY 2010--LEST WE FORGET

HISTORY OF MEMORIAL DAY
In Flanders Fields--John McCrae, 1915:

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

Memorial Day is set aside each year so we can honor those who gave their all in service to our nation. Below are two such servicemen.
HERBERT CHARLES CROSBY

MARC ALAN LEE
On this Memorial Day, I'd like to point out, and thank, a group of people for the work they do in honoring our nation's deceased military members.

In 2006 I wrote about Nichelle Cushing. One day while watching a military funeral on television, Nichelle saw something that bothered her, so she took it upon herself to help correct the problem. Nichelle was just 11-years-old. Here's her story:

On the day they buried Beecher Pierce, Nichelle Cushing stood at parade rest in a cold, pounding rain, some hundred yards from the coffin. High-top, lace-up boots slightly apart. A black beret cocked with formal precision on her hair. A small American flag pinned near the neck of her long black dress. One hand behind her back, the other gripping a 105-year-old bugle.

As Pierce's Masonic brothers concluded the rites, a gun squad of airmen in dress blue uniforms raised their rifles. Three volleys echoed across Fort Richardson National Cemetery.

Nichelle brought her boots together, shut her eyes, drew her full 5 feet and 1 inch to attention, raised the bugle to her lips and sounded the nation's final tribute to a fallen hero -- taps. --continue reading.

BUGLES ACROSS AMERICA

ARLINGTON--WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA, DECEMBER 12, 2009

Andrea Shea King made her way to Arlington National Cemetery again this year for the annual wreath laying ceremony. Sometimes words and pictures alone don't come close to describing what it's like to witness this solemn event, one that takes place across the nation at hundreds of cemeteries simultaneously.

However, Andrea has done an excellent job with her words and pictures in conveying the heartfelt gratitude--and sadness--that was on display Saturday morning. The first picture brings it all into focus for me:

A Field of Dreams

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VETERANS DAY 2009--THANK YOU

The history of Veterans Day indicates that the day has gone through more than one change over the years. At one time there was even confusion over when it was to be observed. However, our willingness and desire to thank all who have served our great nation has never changed. And it never will. Without our veterans, life today would be quite different. To all who have served, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE.

This year I'd like to shine the light on one particular veteran. This vet goes by the name of Lockness. Truly a rare breed, a pioneer for sure. Come February, Lockness will turn 100. What do you get for a 100-year-old vet, anyway? Well, Lockness has a very simple, practical gift in mind, and in February I'm sure it will be enjoyed to the fullest. Thank you for your service, Lockness.

***Andrea Shea King: America's Forgotten Heroes***

***Mary Lou Wade: Salute to our Veterans***

***John Ruberry's Marathon Pundit***

***Steve Schippert: Stolen Honor Reclaimed***

***Mrs. Greyhawk: Veterans Day Dawn Patrol***

***Lorie Byrd at Wizbang***

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