VETERAN'S DAY

It is increasingly important that we honor our veterans.  I have had grandfathers, uncles, my husband Duane, and my niece Chantelle serve our country valiantly.  In my header picture above are some of the patches and medals that my father, Richard Gerke, earned in World War II.  He sent the medals to me a few years ago and wanted his grandchildren to have them.  He was one of the lucky ones to come home alive, but did fight in major battles in France and Germany.  He would never talk about the War, but I do know that he was part of a unit that liberated a concentration camp.

Here's my Dad, 5th from the left with a Nazi flag that they captured.

My Dad was drafted into the army about 4 months after their wedding.  He was sent to several army bases in the United States to train.  Then, they had to part for three long years while he fought on foreign land.

Before he left, he was able to come back to his home in Chicago, and got this memorable picture of Mom in his hat and jacket.  In those days, everyone was so proud of those who served.

I am lucky to also have this photo of my Great Uncle Stanley from World War I ! (He was my Grandmother's brother on my Dad's side).  Veteran's Day is a Federal Holiday marking the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I.  It was signed at the 11th hour, of the 11th day, in the 11th month of 1918.  Sometimes it is called Armistice Day.  I am very proud that I have so many family members who are veterans, and from every war that has been fought since World War I.  Happy Veteran's Day and may God Bless America!!!