There are no words to say how grateful we are
My grandfather was on the beach at Normandy, and recieved many awards. I had no idea about his service until his death. He never talked about it.
The only thing most of our family knew (thought) was that he was a cook in the Army. We had no idea exactly what he had done until his funeral 3 years ago.
I do not know if he just couldn't talk about it, or he didn't want the attention - I'll never know.
He was a sharp-shooter, and not being up completely on all of the awards for service (I am learning) I know he was awarded two Bronze Stars - one for D-Day, another for a different operation we are not sure of.
I know the pain you must have felt after finally learning the truth. It hit me hard,too, to realize all that he had sacrificed and then kept to himself. I just wish I had known SOMETHING before his death so that I could really have told him how proud I was.
Something I have learned about servicemen and women - most times, it is hard enough to blend back into a 'normal' life - and that blending requires letting the past go. I have many men around me that are Vietnam Vets, and the way they were treated upon their return was almost as bad, if not worse, than the atrocities they witnessed in battle. My step-father went through such an ordeal he refused to talk about it at all until last year. Barely gave me details, and has gotten rid of all reminders.
My prayer? That all of these courageous soldiers will realize there are SO MANY OF US WHO CARE - and find a way to open up and let us celebrate their victories with them, and mourn their losses. Just being back home is a blessing. What did or did not happen cannot be changed - but the future can - how they are treated and remembered is something we can take an active role in - which is what our Wonderful, Loving Canteen is for.
I Praise God for the day I found this place.
Again, thank you for sharing, and God Bless you and your family. He is rewarding your Father now - find peace in that.
Love in Christ, JK
Good morning!