Honor, respect, remembrance

Veteran's Day is a time for us to reflect on all who have served in the armed forces over the years. How proud I was on Sunday when the minister at church asked for all who had served to please stand! There Dennis was, among so very many other men who had been in the service of their country at some point in their lives. Following "All Saints" Sunday, it really was very easy to remember our Fathers, who both served during World War II. Even Grandma Marion Howe talked with me as a child about Great, Great (I honestly do not remember how many GREATS), Grandfather James L. Farnham and his service during the Civil War. I was writing a paper for a talk at my graduation from 8th grade at Tunbridge Central School. That was a big year of commemoration for the country, as the Civil War had begun 100 years ago. Well, Grandma was a member of the DAR ( Daughter of the American Revolution), and I remember that they met at what was the post office now... an old building there on that spot. Always wondered how I could join! Just to keep the bloodline of membership in order! Fox Channel is showing "tv gold" right now...kids singing Americana... how beautiful a tribute to our Veterans. Have you ever been to a parade, and watch the flag pass by, being carried by former service men? Well, look at the by-standers... they are all standing, and applauding these people (men and women), or have their hands over their heart. My Mother has a patriotic birthday (4th of July)... so I felt like we all were immersed in the proper respect of Veterans from an early age. So, I say a great big THANK YOU to anyone who has served, or is serving, in any capacity to protect America and all for which it stands ! (The photo is Dennis proudly standing in front of the Viet Nam Veteran's Memorial in Sharon, Vermont. September 2008)