An Army Kind of Day

Today was an Army kind of day. My cousin, who's a marine, just completed Airborne training this week here at Ft. Benning. It's a small world that we happen to be stationed here now, so when my great Uncle George, a WWII vet and Airborne graduate himself, wanted to be able to come pin his wings, my Mom and Dad, who live close to him, were able to drive him down so he could be here. My Aunt and Uncle also came so we had a mini family get together. Of course it made me miss my hubby ... and we all wished he could have been here. I know how much my DH would have enjoyed hearing my great Uncle's war stories and talking with my cousin about his career in the Marines, and just enjoyed being here. He would have enjoyed the sitting around the table drinking Jack Daniels with the men, but another time will come. He was surely with us in spirit as we thought about him, prayed for him, and mentioned him often.

We started the morning on post - right across from hubby's OCS graduation and I got to hear the Army song which always makes me proud. Even the Airborne cadre were so welcoming and genuine when they found out Uncle George was an airborne soldier who jumped in combat during WWII. They were so respectful and sincere - wonderful examples of some of the outstanding soldiers that serve our country.

Afterward we went to the new Infantry Museum and after having lunch at the Fife and Drum walked around the Museum. We even shot at the simulated shooting range ... and lemme just say, I had the best score out of everyone. I even beat out my cousin 11-8. My hubby wouldn't be surprised, he's taught me well and says I'm a good shooter! But after walking around the museum I am just so grateful for all our service men and women, past and present, who have served and currently serve our country.

Although I missed my DH not being able to be here as I know how much he would have enjoyed it, I enjoyed the opportunity to be with family.

Oh, and I took a photo with a 2 star general who graciously gave me one of his coins when I told him my husband was currently deployed! That was pretty exciting. How is it that as an Army wife, I now have 2 coins? I guess they do kind of appreciate us!

Like I said, it was an Army Kind of Day.

From one paratrooper to the next.

My Uncle George had several combat jumps in WWII including the Philippines, Luzon,and New Guinea. He earned a bronze star and a purple heart. After being shot in the leg, his doctor was going to send him home but he refused and wanted to go back and join his men. And so he did. (Being stubborn runs in the family!) Here he is pinning my cousin with the same wings my Uncle George had pinned to his uniform during all his jumps.

Mom, Dad, Uncle David, great Uncle George (my grandfather's brother) and Aunt Mindy

A C-47 - the type of jet my Grandfather flew in WWII where he transported both troops and supplies into battle.