First my Dad's side...

My grandfather Melvin served in World War II. His service to his country didn't earn him an easy life when he returned to the States. Although it is not often given much of a spotlight, share-cropping went on into the twentieth century (I'm sure it still exists today) and it wasn't always a white-black scenario, my grandpa was white. He worked another man's farm with his wife and children for many years.

My Dad and his brother, Ray, also served when they grew up. My Dad was elevated to the position of Major, but thankfully never served in war. His career took him to Germany, Japan, Ohio, and the Pentagon in Washington DC. He retired from the Air Force in 1997.

My Mom's side...

My Great Uncle Julian was great in every sense of the word. He was the kind of man who could do everything: he was a farmer, gardener, builder, wood-worker, and many other things. He and his wife, Mildred, could have easily been voted the most valuable citizens in their community as they were always volunteering their time and creative talents to township and church events.

I only know one story from my Uncle's service in World War II. He was on a ship and standing near the edge. Someone cracked a joke and he laughed so hard that his false teeth fell into the ocean.


My Great Uncle Amos was a joker. I suppose his sense of humor came in handy as he served as a medic in war and when he came home continued his position as an undertaker. He and his wife Betty had two children. The first was a boy who served in Vietnam. The second was a daughter who was born mentally handicap. In a time when many such children were sent off to government-run homes or hidden away somewhere in the house, Amos, and his wife, Betty, loved their daughter and gave her the best life they knew how. Some relatives have said they could have "done more with her", but knowing a little about what did happen to many of these individuals I think they were superior parents.


These are the real heroes, and even better, loved ones, that I remember on this Memorial Day.