PARADE OF APPLAUSE AND THANK-YOU'S

I had an opportunity to borrow a Pontiac G6 convertible from Elhart Pontiac, a local car dealer, in order to give my dad a ride in the local Memorial Day Parade. Thanks Elhart!

This is the second time I've done this and it was once again a very special time. But this time was just a bit more special with my 93 year old dad was riding shotgun and my son Steve and two of my granchildren were riding in the back seat. Four generations seated together in one Pontiac G6.

I was overwhelmed again by the display of gratitude directed toward all of our military veterans as the parade progressed through the downtown area and made its way to the cemetery. We heard continuous applause and a multitude of "thanks for serving" comments, during the entire parade route. It was an emotional time for me as I watched my dad take it all in. Being cheered for the contribution he made for the cause of freedom some 64 years earlier, had to make him feel appreciated.

Before the parade started I suggested that he should have worn his medals. He didn't respond, he was just honored to be part of the day, along with one of his grandkids and two of his great grandkids. A quiet hero...no bragging...no strutting...grateful for God's protection and provision. Grateful for an opportunity to create a lifelong memory for a son, a grandson, and two impressionable children on Memorial Day in 2008.