My dad was a Marine and died just this September at 84 years old having served in both WWII but also the Korean conflict for over 9 years.  I know the military was a big piece of his life, though he rarely talked about it, since he always went to the local VA for treatments.  Our parents' wedding photo (of many) is of paired Marines, swords streched overhead and them coming down the corridor of that - quite spectacular.  My dad's funeral was a limited military one, playing of taps by uniformed Marine personnel and the ceremonial folding of the flag, presented to my mother.  The sobs from the mourners was audible from the start of taps but my mother was strong.  During the entire funeral process I saw her cry/sob only two times - when they closed the casket at the funeral home and she saw her husband for the last time, and when the folded flag was presented to her.  Perhaps the Marine Corps agenda was part of her too.

Susan, My Dad just pasted this last August 4th, He was 75 and was buried with full military honors - the ceremony was something I will never forget. My Dad was a Korean War Vet. He never spoke about it much either unless it was to the Grandsons... but never to "Daddy's little Girls" My husband wore his uniform when we were married. Yes it does become a part of us - God Bless.

Jo, You and I, and our families, are enduring the first year of loss.  My brother, who was also a Marine, spoke to our father often about everything.  He reminded me today how he thought to call Dad on veteran's day as he always has in the past but then remembered he is no longer here.  They say the first year is the worst.  I asked my sister what was going to happen for Thanksgiving (my brother and I live many states away from our family home) and she said she had prepared a Thanksgiving-like meal last Sunday with some of the family invited over.  The turkey was carved in the kitchen but a full feast was had in the dining room.  What a great and subtle planner she is!  SW  

Susan, your words are very true. I miss my calls with my Dad. He was a story teller. He left everyone he knew with a story. After his funeral at my parents home I could hear people telling those stories and it was so comforting.