with John W. Howell
Today, we should pause to remember and thank those who served in the armed forces. Because of their service, we live and enjoy our freedoms.
If you know a vet, thank them for us. If you know a vet who is no longer with us, remember them and what they did for you. If you are a vet, thank you so much for your service and dedication to this great country.
Today has been set aside to remember our veterans. We owe all who have served a thank you for keeping our freedoms intact. The living and those who have sacrificed their lives so that we may live all deserve to be remembered and thanked. Friday may have been the day indicated for observation, but today is the day for remembrance.
My Dad, John Allen Howell, is just one of those to be remembered.
He was 31 years old when he volunteered to serve in World War II. He could have stayed home but felt he had some engineering skills that could be useful.
His Squadron was Bombing Group 9 (Yes, Bugs Bunny was the logo)
In this photo, he is on the aircraft carrier Lexington CV 16, serving as the navigation officer for the squadron. He flew with the squadron, navigating them to the target and back to the ship under radio silence. He did his duty.
This day always brings to mind grandfathers, grandmothers, fathers, mothers, uncles, aunts, cousins, and siblings. All those in my family who served their country in the armed services and medical corps. Their service not only helped defeat America’s enemies but ensured that each of us had the freedom to pursue life, liberty, and happiness.
Today is the day to remember all who have served and those whose service also meant their ultimate gift to our freedom.
God bless our veterans. Today’s JohnKu is about just one.
Grandfather by John W. Howell © 2022
Your destiny was,
Fulfilled long before my birth . . .
Freedom was your gift.
