Memorial Day is a day to remember. Recently I visited the Mighty 8th Air Force Museum in Pooler, GA. Incredible displays, much on WWII history. I am always drawn to airplanes, as my Dad flew a Torpedo Bomber in WWII off carriers (much more to come in a separate post), and one of my best friends Dad flew a PBY in WWII. Uncle Wesley kept his license and always had a plane since his discharge, and he took us up, and did touch downs and take offs at a very young age. But this is about Memorial Day, not just planes. It is when all gave some, but some gave all. My wife's Uncle Frank died in England, as a waist gunner on a B-17. Never found after takeoff and likely a mechanical failure. Some of the planes barely were able to get airborne when completed. Below is the flag that was given to his mother, Carol's grandmother, proudly displayed in our home.
It is also a time to think back to visiting Arlington Memorial Cemetery. Perhaps one of my favorite places in DC. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the changing of the guard, and the headstones. My former neighbor Bascom Durham, US Army Special Forces, Retired Lt. Col., still in his dress uniform, practicing taps for his duty today. Such a beautiful, lonely sound. Taps for the memories of the fallen soldiers. Let's take time to remember and honor those who gave all.
