Veterans History
This week I wanted to pause and think about the history of U.S. Veterans and include some memories of my favorite Veteran, Tail Gunner Donald Lawhorn. Thank you for subscribing, and if you enjoy reading this, please forward the newsletter to your friends. What stories or memories would you like to share for Veteran’s Day? ~ Kevin
“It is one of the many graveyards which are the Great War's chief heritage. The chronicle of its battles provides the dreariest literature in military history; no brave trumpets sound in memory for the drab millions who plodded to death on the featureless plains of Picardy and Poland; no litanies are sung for the leaders who coaxed them to slaughter.” ~ John Keegan
A Day on November 11th:
After the end of the Great War (or later called World War I) the United States celebrated the signing of the armistice on November 11th, 1918 that stopped the long war. It continued to be a day recognized that became codified in 1938 as Armistice Day and was amended to be known as Veteran’s Day in 1954. Toward that end, President Eisenhower signed a proclamation declaring, "In order to insure proper and widespread observance of this anniversary, all veterans, all veterans' organizations, and the entire citizenry will wish to join hands in the common purpose.”
Traditions:
Family:
My grandfather, Don Lawhorn, was a tail gunner of a B-17 in World War II. They flew bombing missions from Italy into Axis Europe. He was confronted by German fighters as well as flack in numerous missions. His bombing missions and the effort as a whole focused on degrading the German military industry which crushed Nazi options.
In my twenties, he made a trip to Washington, D.C. and we got to visit the World War II memorial. I remember how glad he was to see it and that his fellow service members were recognized. However, it was not a pride he reflected on himself but for others. That stood out because he was often proud of his golf game for his skill. But this was a pride for being a part of something challenging and noble along with his brothers in the 99th Bomb Group.
He also contributed his stories to the Veteran’s History Project which is housed by the Library of Congress. Grandpa shared a lot of stories with us over the years and I thought the best way I could recognize Veteran’s Day is by reflecting on one of my favorite Veteran’s.
His spirit is so similar to all of my grandparents. Each of them was strong and carried a deep character.
I am enjoying the chance to share these newsletters with you in the form of the new podcasts and appreciate your continued feedback. You can reply to this email or leave your comments below. I sincerely enjoy chatting and learning what folks think. Thank you ~ Kevin