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Sunday, May 26, 2013

Memorial Day 2013


I was very fortunate to be in Arlington Cemetery last week with my students and their parents. I have been there many times before, but the experience never gets dull. I weep every time I see the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Did you know the Honor Guard there has been guarding that spot since 1930. Non-stop. During hurricanes, blizzards, the September 11 attack. In fact, I sometimes wonder if the guard actually saw the plane crash into the Pentagon from high up on his watch. Whatever he thought as he witnessed evil, he continued his orders to guard those tombs.


My deepest gratitude and respect for the family of this soldier. 
I share this tombstone with you because I think it captures what Memorial Day is all about. Being grateful for men and women like this. Incredible devotion to our country.



One very graphic reminder of the horrors of war…. Revolutionary War medical tools. The tool on the far left is for dental work. Root canal, anyone? 




We also made a stop at Gettysburg and got to hear the breathtaking story of the daring charge George Pickett made at the Union troops, inspiring his men by shouting, "Up, Men, and to your posts! Don't forget today that you are from Old Virginia."…. oh, dear. Didn’t go well for him that day. 

Whatever plans you have for picnics and barbecues, beaches and parades, house work and gardening, please take a moment this weekend and be thankful for those Americans who gave their lives for their country. 

4 comments:

  1. Thanks for sharing Tracy! I went to Arlington Cemetery a few years ago, and there is a definite reverence in that special spot. It definitely makes you realize how lucky and blessed we are. I hope you have a great memorial day!

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  2. Pickett's Charge...OMG, such a disaster and so sad.

    Have you read The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara (it's a historical novel about the Battle of Gettysburg)? The movie Gettysburg is based on it.

    If you haven't read it, you would love it.

    Happy Memorial Day to you and yours!

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    Replies
    1. Someone else just told me about that book. I've got it my my long list of 'must reads.'

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    2. Thanks for reminding us what Memorial Day is truly about Tracy. I'd love to visit Arlington one of these days. I'm a huge history buff. Happy Memorial Day to all!

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