I love the love and hopefulness this picture presents to me. There really is something so appealing about the civility and tradition of that time.

I know what you mean, Murraysmom. I was born during that war, and I'm still drawn to the images and music of the time.

My Grandfather in Feb 1943

My Mom and Dad.

My paternal grandfather served in the overseas forestry unit during WWII. He wasn't a soldier, he built bridges and other stuff in England. That's all I know. This is his unit.

Picture of a vet? Yes, I carry one in my wallet. It's on my driver license.

The cynical side of me has always had mixed emotions about venerating vets. Some or all of the following things apply: most (me included) served involuntarily, were not exposed to hostile fire or life-threatening circumstances, made little or no personal sacrifice other than the time and when viewed soberly, contributed little to the nation's security.

Those who served in combat? It's a different story altogether, too many had life changing wounds, experiences and bad memories that will never leave. When you look at a group of vets, those are the ones to thank and they're a very small minority. Too many of the rest are wannabees looking for public acknowledgement they may not have earned.

Are they veterans even tho died in the war? It's something I just now thought of. Anyone who served and is still alive after the war or killed during battle is a veteran, right?

I think if a person has honorably given his time and effort to protect this country, regardless of what happened to that person during that time, it is worth my thanks. Even the slackers, Elmer, are deserving.

Anyone who died in a war was a veteran of that war, Schoolhouse.

Our WWII vets are dying at a rate of about 500 per day now. Back in 1995, the 50th anniversary of the end of the war, I helped many hundreds of vets locate their military buddies. It was a year-long project, and I received many letters and gestures of gratitude. A Certificate of Appreciation from the 97th Signal Battalion Association hangs on the wall above my computer.

I've talked about this before at the KT, so I apologize for repeating myself. But I think of it as one of the best things I ever did.

The most wonderful man in the world! Miss you, daddy! (do all girls think their dad is/was the best?) :)

Yes, I think we all do, Moonie--but we're all entitled! Your dad was very handsome.

Thank you, alisande. not only handsome, but a very kind person.

My late husband.

My husband!

My Dad. WW1 at training , Camp Pike, Arkansas, ca 1917.

He served in Central France.