Memorial Day

This year Memorial Day celebrations were a little different. It started last week, with our youngest. She was selected to present the wreath for her school in the base's wreath ceremony. The ceremony last about two hours and was hotter than we all expected (for a morning event). After 3 service members passed out during it, I wasn't sure how she would hold up. Her instructions were simply to watch the other people and do the same thing. After over 40 wreaths, it was her turn and she did fantastic! As I parent, I was proud of her. Not only did she represent her school but the military itself.

Next, we joined hundreds of other scouts and their families to lay over 36,000 flags in the state's veteran's cemetery. It was such a moving experience. After the horns was blown and we could start, it was a matter of moments and you could look up and there was a see if flags. It was touching to watch such young kids thank those for their service. The lady who wiped away the headstone and started to cry. The living veterans who walked among those who have fallen. Our oldest who sang I am proud to be an American on the way back to the car.

We did the MIA and KIA walk/run to start off the weekend. I couldn't even begin to explain that one to the kids and was thankful they didn't ask. I don't want them to worry. I also know, they are reaching the age where they are starting to understand it is more than dad is gone. After, we attended a look parade and I would have to say, surprisingly, I think the first parade I have taken them to. It was fun to end on a positive note.

Throughout the events, I wished he was here. Words and even pictures don't describe what it was like. It was hard to be the one who's husband wasn't there. To answer their questions but my questions were left unanswered. He is the one I asked my silly questions to during events. Like why, do they do a certain thing during military events or why does every one in this section of the cemetery have the same end date? Maybe, next year he will be home for it.

At the beginning of the events, I explain to the kids what Memorial Day means. I simply said, it is to honor those who have fought for our country and lost our lives. Our youngest looked at me and said, it is just army guys though, right? It was hard to respond and tell her, no it is all branches. She looked at me and said, oh.