I just got back from a trip to San Antonio to see my oldest son graduate from Basic Training in the Air Force. As we walked around the city site seeing, it was interesting and really, really great how many perfect strangers walked up to my son as and said either "Congratulations, Airman." or "Thank you for your service."
It's nice to know people appreciate those willing to serve in the armed forces.
My father served for many years in the navy and my oldest brother served in the Air Force. I also have lots of in-laws and extended family currently serving. I just never thought I'd have a son serve. As a mother, I have mixed feelings, of course. Mostly I pray a lot that he'll be safe and that he'll make wise choices.
One of the places we visited, along with the Riverwalk and Alamo, both of which are worth the trip, was a memorial for veterans. A plaque next to one of the sculptures, which was that of a fallen Vietnam soldier, had a poem that touched me. I'd like to share it:
To those to serve our country in the armed forces, thank you, and may God protect you.
It's nice to know people appreciate those willing to serve in the armed forces.
My father served for many years in the navy and my oldest brother served in the Air Force. I also have lots of in-laws and extended family currently serving. I just never thought I'd have a son serve. As a mother, I have mixed feelings, of course. Mostly I pray a lot that he'll be safe and that he'll make wise choices.
One of the places we visited, along with the Riverwalk and Alamo, both of which are worth the trip, was a memorial for veterans. A plaque next to one of the sculptures, which was that of a fallen Vietnam soldier, had a poem that touched me. I'd like to share it:Death At My Door
Day is over as danger hastens
young marines at their battle stations
instruments of war outline the sky
means of death are standing by.
Can it be true on this high hill
forces will clash only to kill?
silence fills the near moonless night
restlesss thoughts of a bloody fight
Endless memories for those awake
meaningfull discussion experience would make
though silent world in which we live
permits only God's comfort to give
Somewhere through the darkness creeping
a date with death is in the keeping
alone I sit and question why
life itself to be born to merely die?
by David G. Rogers
1st Lt USMG
April 30, 1967
To those to serve our country in the armed forces, thank you, and may God protect you.
3 comments:
Praying for God's blessing on him, and grateful for his courage to serve.
Thank you, Judy.
Donna,
Thank you for your post. I loved the poem. I loved that you are honoring those who serve.
My husband served in the Air Force for 21 years during and through the Viet Nam era and he, as do I, totally appreciates anyone who takes the time to say "Thank You"!
~Joyce S. of Tumbleweed Lane
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