We’ve had a veteran’s theme going on all week on facebook and in other blog posts.
On veteran’s day, my friend, Peggy Sanders, https://www.facebook.com/peggy.sanders.16 , http://writingwidgets.wordpress.com/ posted the following remarks on facebook:
Cpl. Mason McKean
“Thank you, veterans. And thank you to the veterans who don’t wear uniforms–the military families who make it possible for service members to do what they do. I was an army wife for 16 years before my husband died on active duty in 1990. When those in military service are married, there are two people who have full time jobs serving their country. And when there’s a medal pinned on a soldier’s chest, I hope there’s a tiny little angel pinning one on his or her spouse as well.”
As a military brat, I can only say – Thanks for mentioning this, Peggy,and for sharing your story.
Unsung Heroes
My Dad was a uniformed soldier. We moved at the click of a pen. We never knew from one day to the next what city we’d find ourselves in.
When you live the life of a nomad -
changing homes like others change shoes -
you learn to charge into every new place
with ‘grit’, ‘cause there’s nothing to lose.
You’re a traveler on roads unfamiliar;
An explorer in uncharted land.
You’re De Leon, and Cortez, and Cabot,
alone where the sea meets the sand
As Heinlein described, we were strangers
in lands that we never called home.
And while Dad was away, ‘cross the ocean,
we held up our heads with aplomb
‘Twas country he served, not just family.
We knew of the trials he faced
and tried to be ‘soldiers’ by handling
our worries and problems with grace.
If ever you’re in need of heroes,
just look at the uniformed crew,
and standing behind them, the ones with the ‘grit’ -
the family that sees them all through.
Mom and Dad
Wonderful poem and post. I agree with Dot and Freeda. I hope Peggy received lots of support when she found herself having to go on alone.
Gayle, this poem and Peggy’s sharing is the best tribute I’ve seen this year.
Thanks Dot! That means a lot!
Outstanding poem and post, Gayle. As an Air Force wife, I can relate! Thanks for sharing. One more reason why poets should share their masterpieces online–more people have the opportunity to read them.
True, Freeda, if I can just get my inner critic to ‘let go’ of them!
I know what you mean.