Thanksgiving Gratitude for Veterans
One of the reasons we chose to live in the Ozarks is the Patriotism that is on display 365 days a year.
To say that Veterans Day ( or rather Veterans Week) is a big deal, is an understatement.
Patriots Park was created at College of The Ozarks to honor veterans of ALL wars and conflicts.
One of the areas of the park is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
The memorial features two black granite walls which symbolizes the division of America on that war.
The statue is the middle represents the men and women from Missouri who served.
The "V shape" in the center of the state of Missouri, stands for VALOR for those who shed blood during the war.
My husband served in the Navy during the Vietnam timeframe.
He volunteered for the Navy, as he felt he had a better chance of survival than being drafted into the Army.
While we were taking photos, a group of men were viewing the wall and the statue.
We soon realized their Charlie Company Memorial group were in town for their Vietnam reunion.
The Charlie Company infantry fought in the northern part of South Vietnam.
(I have learned the Charlie Company 2nd 506 Infantry 101st Airborne is part of the Band of Brothers legacy from WWII Easy Company 2nd 506th Infantry 101st Airborne.)
My husband spoke with the men and we went on to lunch.
I noticed in his pocket a small plastic bag and I asked what it was.
He said that group of men gave him this token, from one Veteran to another.
This is what the small card says,
" I am part of our American Flag that has flown over the USA.
I can no longer fly. The sun and winds caused me to become tattered and torn.
Please carry me as a reminder that
YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN".
I remember the riots on college campuses.
I also remember these brave men and women who returned from the jungles of Vietnam, included were some of my own family.
I remember the news saying this was a war no one wanted and the U.S. body count per week.
Most of these men were drafted, although some volunteered.
They were called to duty as an American.
They came home to jeers, protesters, spit on and vilified for SERVING THEIR COUNTRY.
Yet, this group of men, for a Charlie Company Memorial reunion were carrying a star from a worn flag in their pockets, close their heart.
Can you imagine how these Vietnam Vets feel when they see an NFL "star" kneel for the flag?
These Vets didn't take a knee, unless they were injured or mortally wounded.
I love living where Patriotism is celebrated and honors those who serve in any conflict.
College of the Ozarks is a private liberal arts college whose 5 goals for students to strive for are: Academic, Vocational, Christian, Patriotic and Cultural.
Comments(9)