I think its safe to say that everyone today is thankful for our nation's veterans! What we need to remember is to be thankful for them the other 364 days of the year! Several of them are in my own family and very close friends. In fact- we are a strong military family on both sides (Rick's and mine) and represent all branches of the military. Here are a few of many veterans, past and present:
My dad was in the army. He is my hero.
Dad when stationed in Germany. My mom and dad still have reunions every other year with the couples they met while serving in Germany. Their most recent reunion was last month in San Diego.
My dad's dad, Louis was also in the military and that is how my grandparents met~ they were pen pals during WWII.
We have all the letters that my grandfather sent to my grandmother. She numbered them and had them in order.
It truly is amazing to read their relationship form and blossom through letters!
My mom's family has many veteran's also. My uncles served in the Navy. My grandfather, Irvin was a merchant marine. Here he is with his father, Knudt.
Many others on my mom's side were in the Coast Guard. Some even went on to work for Electric Boat, building our nation's submarines! We got to visit the Submarine Museum while in CT this year. Uncle Carl walked Emily through all the buttons. She was ready to set sail!
We got to tour the USS Nautilus. The first nuclear powered sub.
My great-grandmother, Grace Mahoney had the honor of christening (or sponsoring) the
USS Cod in 1943. Here is a photo of the commemorative postmark from the date she sponsored it.
This was an important event for our family and my great-grandmother was very proud to have had this honor.
Rick's family has his paternal grandfather who was a career Marine.
His uniform was on display at his funeral a couple years ago.
Rick's maternal grandparents both served in the army. His grandmother, Betty was a nurse. His grandfather, Miles, was a warrant officer.
When Rick's grandmother passed away a few years ago the family presented Rick with the American flag that was on her casket. We know she was proud of her time served and we are proud to remember her and all our family members that have served.
And here is our most recent family addition to the military!
My cousin, Josh entered the United States Air Force this year. We had the pleasure of getting to spend some time with him while we were in Connecticut, before he enlisted. We are so grateful to Josh for his service. The Air Force is lucky to have him! We think of him and pray for his safety daily.
It takes a special person to decide to enter into the military. It is not easy and the challenges and sacrifices are great. We are so thankful to all the men and women (and their families) that have served and currently serve to keep our country safe. Thank you!
We had been living with my parents for 6 months while renovations were done on our place. We are so grateful for their generosity in opening their home to us while I was on bed rest and when the babies were born. And I know they were happy to have us; as well as excited to get us out of there! :o)
They aren't in the same order- but the difference is amazing! Top: Madeline, Emily, Ashley
This house will always hold a special place in our hearts.
This house will always hold a special place in our hearts.
