When I was in High School, our band went to the local Veteran's home, played a medley of Patriotic music and spent some time with the Veteran's. We also had what we called the Extravaganza where all of the junior high and high school bands, color guards, cheerleaders and drill teams got together during the half time show of a football game to honor the Veteran's with music, dance, and usually something really big like a Hummer or something in the middle of us all. There was always a big flag lowered from the ceiling and a 21 gun salute. It was quite fantastic and amazing, and a sense of humility really fell through me as I was so incredibly grateful for the men and women who serve, or have served, our country. I can be at home sleeping in my nice warm bed and at any given moment, thousands of men and women are across the country defending my freedom so I can speak, pray, worship as I choose.
I had forgot about the significance of this day until Doogie and I saw a flag flying from a neighboring apartment, and I remembered. I have a Father-in-law, Grandpa, a Grandpa-in-law, and three brothers who have served in various branches of the military. I am ever so grateful to have them so close to my heart. Thank you for serving! Thank you for sacrificing so much for my freedom! I love you dearly!
8 comments:
Amen sister!
I remeber doing a good few of those Extravaganzas! I always hated being right next to the 21 gun salute-- They are so loud!
Anyways I totally agree with you and it is a very special day
Great post! I totally agree!
Thanks for such a heartfelt tribute.
I think it's easy to go about our own lives without thinking how much others are sacrificing so we can enjoy our freedom. Thanks for the reminder. I loved your Alaska pictures (you look awesome by the way). Infertility can't be easy. Thanks for filling the rest of us in on your feelings - it makes it easier to be empathetic and understanding. You don't know just how strong you are!!
I've only been involved in 2 Extravaganza's, but they've been downsized lately! No hummers in the middle any more-so sad!!! And we're having trouble getting veteran's to come stand on the field with us to be recognized. Also, we have only had 3 guns shoot three shots, but still definitely worth it. I'm just glad we still do it. It's SO hard to instill in the kids' minds WHY it's so important. Of course this year was harder than most because the game we played at happened to be Halloween too. But I can never do it without getting misty-eyed
Hey could I get your address. Trying to get Christmas card lists done. Thanks krushdi@yahoo.com
Hi Brandy
I miss you how you been? I'm glad to have stumbled upon your blog
Lacey
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