Posted on 07/05/2004 9:37:49 PM PDT by Brandon
We always called him Cousin Richard, but he wasn't really my cousin. He was one of those relatives so distant on the family tree that you wouldn't even know he existed, if he wasn't living a few blocks away while you were growing up.
He was born in 1918. He was one of the Greatest Generation. He didn't win any high-ranking medals; he committed no great feats of heroism. But he wore his country's uniform and helped save the world, along with all the others.
When it was over, he brought home a Canadian girl, and last September they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. They have four children, and I've lost track of how many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. By their acts and the loving, peaceful way they lived their lives, they helped again, by making the world they had saved a world that was worth saving.
Cousin Richard's life has spanned more than eight decades. My mother called me this evening, and tells me that what remains can be most likely measured in hours. Cousin Richard was a quiet man, and there was only one prayer he truly valued. Since he can no longer say it, I will say it for him:
Our Father Who art in Heaven, hallowed by Thy name
Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who tresspass against us
Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil
For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever.
Amen
I am going to miss this great generation - such quiet character, honesty, responsibility, and respect for duty and the right thing.
We were so fortunate to have them for parents and relatives.
The very young will never even know what it is that we will miss - how sad.
God speed, Cousin Richard. Hugs and prayers for all who love him.
Prayers for comfort for the family of this great American!
Lets Pray the spirit of this generation will never die, otherwise were finished , God Bless Them , Lets always remember them.
Cousin Richard has left us. Thanks to all for your thoughts and prayers. It was as peaceful as you could hope, and he was surrounded by his family. RIP.
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