GIVING THANKS FOR SERVICE GIVEN

Keeping 'Spirit' While At War

It may seem a bit odd to be staring at a holiday tree in May, but there is a story behind the tree.

This old geezer had a mate who served in Iraq and the brilliant chap sent this snap to to remind that while it was not the best of places to celebrate the holiday, it was not ignored or forgot.

When called up during the Vietnam War, the old geezer was most fortunate.  Posted to Italy he was and nary a bullet was fired at.  All of the comforts of home were in place.  While some fought in the jungles of Vietnam, the old geezer typed his way through his period of compulsory conscription.

Speed forward to many years later, another war was on.  Young men and women were being asked to serve their country in another horrid place.

This old geezer has the snap sent to, on his computer, and oft is it looked at and the memories of how much is given by brave men and women, in service to their country, is called to mind.

This Memorial Day, the old geezer remembers a young best mate who died in Vietnam.  He is forever 20 in me mind, full of life and promise.  Paul is remembered and his service in the US Army.  Andy Vasquez, a US Marine always, who continues to serve his country as an elected official.  John, best mate from days in the orphanage who went on to win the Silver Star, Bronze Star and three Purple Hearts before falling in battle in Vietnam.

The old geezer remembers travelling to 'The Wall' in Washington DC, many years after the war and becoming overwhelmed as he took an etching of the name of best mate who was immortalized upon it.  His sacrifice not forgot.

The old geezer looks at the snap from war and remembers much.

Duty, Honour, Country.