Remembering on Memorial Day

We are observing Memorial Day this weekend. It was originally called "Decoration Day" and was established in 1868 and grew out of the Civil War where our losses were worse than all other wars combined.  For Dayle and I - we make the trek across the Columbia River to where my Father lies at rest in Vancouver, WA.  Dayle takes cleaning supplies and I take flowers.  My dad is buried in the military section of the cemetery and there is always a flag by his grave when we arrive.

This is the "before" photo of his marker.  It looks like Dad's girlfriend Betty was there before us with a bouquet of flowers.

Dayle gets busy scrubbing the marker with soap and water while I add our rhodies to the existing bouquet. 

My dad was in the Marines during WWII and was sent to Iwo Jima and went in on the first wave and was there through the entire campaign.  We recently found that his unit was sent to seize the airfield when he first arrived.  It was a costly assault and over 200 in his unit went ashore and at the end, only 17 were not killed or seriously wounded.  

I also honor my husband who was in the Army and flew a helicopter in Vietnam, where he was shot in the thigh while flying a scout mission.  His left leg is an inch and 5/8s shorter as a result of his wounds.  He received a Purple Heart, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, amongst others.  We're proud of him.  He and my Dad had a bond due to their shared war experiences.  Here he is spraying a polish on the marker once it is cleaned and dried.

All fixed up.   

It is very peaceful here.   

Hubby and I -- and dad. 

My sister Roberta and her husband Ted joined us and brought some more decorations to add.  We were over by the car in the shade visiting and I saw Dayle had stayed behind so he could talk to Dad privately.  I love this shot.  

Today we're expecting our two oldest grandsons for an overnight visit while our son and DIL have a coastal getaway together.  If you have anyone in your family that served in the military, please take a few moments to thank them for their service.  It's our soldiers that put their lives on the line to protect our safety and freedom.  ((hugs)), Teresa :-)