In my last blog I referenced music and the memories it can bring back. This last Memorial Day weekend I was listening to one of my favorite songs. One of the lyrics in this song had me thinking about my military service. The lyric goes like this: So many people have come and gone, their faces face as the years go by.
My first duty assignment in the U.S. Army Was with the 1st Regiment 3rd U.S. Infantry (The Old Guard). One of the many traditions the unit had was a placing a flag or at every tombstone in Arlington National Cemetary on Friday morning before Memorial Day weekend. This tradition Was called “Flags In.” We would have a pack full of the miniture flags on sticks and started placing them at each tombstone around 5 AM. We would salute any Medal of HONOR Winner and Former Presidents and Generals. We would be finished before the cemetery opened.
For many, Memorial Day is a long weekend, the start of the Summer season. For me, it is a time to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and these families who gave us their loved one so that all of us may enjoy the freedoms which we enjoy today. If you happen to see a gold star family (those who lost a loved one in combat) thank them for their sacrifice.
The months of June/ July not only encompass summer but a slew of holidays. June 14th is Flag Day as well as the U.S. Army’s birthday. June 16th is Father’s Day.
Take a moment in your busy day to drop a line to your father. Remember all those fathers who are incarcerated and missing their time with family.
June 19th is Juneteenth, the newest holiday celebrating freedom. Finally, we have July 4th. Our nation will be celebrating its 248th birthday as a nation. That may seem old, but in the scheme of the world, we are really young. We have had our growing pains and will continue to do so. So, while you enjoy the festivities that go along with the celebration remember those who died in Combat and those who served our nation to give all Americans the chance to enjoy them.
In closing, I will leave you with a statement that a fellow Veteran who has now passed gave to me: “Old soldiers never die, they just fade away.” I have that statement on my locker and I remember all those who served up the Ultimate Sacrifice when I see it every day.
Til Next time – Live Long and Prosper!
-Bill Isaac Comments? Feel Free to reach out.
P.S. I am getting senile in my old age. June 6th will be the 80th anniversary of the landings in France, Thank you to those who fought and liberated those under the rule of Nazi Germany.
William Isaac is an Army Veteran and a Federal Inmate in Kentucky. Learn more about him and see pictures on PenPals.Buzz. Contact him at: William Isaac #14119-025, FMC Lexington, PO Box 14500, Lexington, KY 40512
