Dad rarely talks about it, and even then not much is said. He doesn’t think he should be praised, or singled out for what he did. It was his duty. He was called to serve, so he served. My father-in-law doesn’t say much about his service either. Oh, there are a few stories we have heard over the years, but they are funny stories about things that happened on his ship. I have never heard him say anything about the war itself.

My dad, Homer Ezel Smith, served in the Army. He spent a year on the 38^th Parallel in Korea during the Koren War, in a tank. I have only recently talked to him about some of the horrors of war that he witnessed. The lasting effect the war has had on Dad is inside him. He has never let the world know, or see its effect. The only outward sign is that He is physically shaken at the playing of Taps.

As for Paula’s Dad, Elbert Kay Goyne. He served in WWII in the Navy. Once again I haven’t heard exactly what he witnessed, or did, during his time in service. I don’t know if he carries internal scars caused by his time in service. I only know that he served when he was needed, and I am thankful for that.

I know there are thousands and thousands of others who have gone to war to serve this country, and us. To help us maintain the freedom that we enjoy. And I am so thankful for their sacrifice. Please join me in giving these great individuals a well-deserved Thank You.

Till next time,

Grump

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