Memorial Day in the USA

**Frank McGrath** · 27th May 06, 11:29 AM

I just came back from our local cemetary where I, along with some friends and members of the local scout troop placed flags on the graves of our departed veterans. To read the markers is a testament to the men who have died for our freedoms. There are veterans from the revolutionaary war right up to Desert Storm. I tried to say a prayer at each veterans stone as I placed the flag. If nothing else, just to say thanks.. It was quite a lesson for the scouts that helped. Maybe Scouts everywhere should do this at their local cemetaries. Well, must get ready for the big parade on Monday to honor those veterans that can still get out.. Happy Memorial Day. Thank a Vet.

**davedove** · 27th May 06, 01:53 PM

Originally Posted by Frank McGrath

I just came back from our local cemetary where I, along with some friends and members of the local scout troop placed flags on the graves of our departed veterans. To read the markers is a testament to the men who have died for our freedoms. There are veterans from the revolutionaary war right up to Desert Storm. I tried to say a prayer at each veterans stone as I placed the flag. If nothing else, just to say thanks.. It was quite a lesson for the scouts that helped. Maybe Scouts everywhere should do this at their local cemetaries. Well, must get ready for the big parade on Monday to honor those veterans that can still get out.. Happy Memorial Day. Thank a Vet.

I read a story not too long ago about Arlington. Each year, just before Memorial Day, a detail of soldiers goes through the entire cemetary and places a flag at each stone. Because it is a huge task, most just go through and place the flags. One soldier, however, as he placed the flag, would take the time to salute each grave. When asked why he did it, he simply stated, "They deserve it."

**Scottish Chi** · 27th May 06, 02:47 PM

In the morning I will be visiting my father who now rests in a small cemetary close by since we lost him a couple of months ago. He is in a section reserved for veterans and his name is now engraved on a veterans memorial there. He served his country during WWII as a B-17 pilot and spent almost 2 years in a POW camp. Later my wife and I will visit mom, the love of his life, who kept the light burning for him during those hard years after seeing him leave for war only a couple of days after being married. They have both been my heros in a time when real heros are being overshadowed by movie and sports personalities. To honor them I am presently writing a book about his time as a POW from a diary he kept and the few letters that made it through to mom. The grandchildren and greatgrandchildren need to know the history and sacrifice that is part of their heritage.

It will also be a day to honor my wife who served our country for over 20 years. Fortunately she is still my bride and the love of my life.

Bless all the brave men and women who have sacrificed for us and who have carried the banner of freedom.

Cheers! Bill