Arc de Triomphe

Arc de Triomphe

Recognizing all who fought for France during World War I,

this darkened room on the top level of the arch is a quiet,

reverent place.

My grandfather (World War I) and my father 

(World War II) both fought on French soil and survived

to share their stories.

I am remembering them 

on our US Memorial Day.

Arc de Triomphe

Place Charles de Gaule

75008, Paris

 

Veteran's Day - Beyond

Veteran's Day

Changing of the Guard

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Arlington Cemetery

As you know I rarely go "Beyond" but today is Veteran's Day, and it seemed appropriate to share a story.  About a year ago I was fortunate to be selected as a Guardian for an Honor Flight.  We accompanied over 100 World War II Veterans to see the war memorials in Washington, D.C.  The men and women who were in their teens when they went to the Pacific or to Europe to fight in the war are now in their late eighties and nineties.  What an experience to talk to these former soldiers and to hear their stories.  My dad died just five weeks before we were to have gone together on this momentous journey.   

You can see in the reflection of the Guard's glasses the bright yellow shirts of our Veterans.

(for Daddy)

Arlington Cemetery

Washington, D.C.