FReeper Heart of Georgia” buried her dad yesterday. He was a WW2 vet & she asked me to put something in regarding him. Here is the thread where she posted re: his passing & I have lifted various things from this thread for her tribute to him. He was her “dad” but he was more importantly her “hero”
My dad is Tech. Sgt. Burlin Ray Delaney,
July 12, 1927 --- February 1, 2007.
In looking through Dad’s military papers, I came across his discharge papers from the Army and Air Force. He served in the Army for two years, then transferred to the Air Force, where he served for the next 20 years. Anyway, I was reading the back of his Army discharge papers and couldn’t help but notice his accomplishments - in two short years of service:
33. DECORATIONS AND CITATIONS
EAME Theater Ribbon with 1 Bronze Star; Good Conduct Ribbon.
Also found this letter and wanted to share it with you. I'm sure all of the brave men and women received this letter, but I treasure it because it's from the White House, signed by the president in blue ink, paying tribute to those who deserved so much more.
(The seal of the President of the United States of America at center)
STAFF SERGEANT DELANEY
To you who answered the call of your country and served in its Armed Forces to bring about the total defeat of the enemy, I extend the heartfelt thanks of a grateful Nation. As one of the Nation’s finest, you undertook the most severe task one can be called upon to perform. Because you demonstrated the fortitude, resourcefulness and calm judgment necessary to carry out the task, we now look to you for leadership and example in further exalting our country in peace.
Harry S. Truman
THE WHITE HOUSE
The service is behind us --- it was a wonderful tribute to a man so deserving, who is loved by everyone who knew him. The flag covering my dad was a beautiful reminder to me of the great sacrifice our heros make every day. We sang all the verses to "Amazing Grace" (a cappella), and since George Beverly Shea was my dad's favorite gospel singer, a recording of "I'd Rather Have Jesus" was played.
The minister spoke of Dad's life, and he read out of the New Testament that Dad carried with him during the wars. My dad gave me that little Bible when I was around 10 years old. He told me he had read it through, and that it was what kept him. On the inside back cover, he's written just like this:
P.F.C. HOWARD O. ROYAL
LIVED IN SYCALAUGA
ALABAMA
He was in the foxhole when his buddy was killed. He made some sort of a ring out something of his. My mom says it was his mess kit, but I don't remember what Dad said about it. Anyway, with all the moving around you have to do in military life, the ring was lost.
The minister also spoke of the foundations of this country, laid by our forefathers, of Judeo-Christian beliefs, and that they shouldn't be taken lightly.
Below are the lyrics to a song that my dear friend Kay sang just as beautifully as Janet Paschal does it:
Another Soldier's Coming Home,
written/composed by Janet Paschal
His back is bent and weary
His voice is tired and low
His sword is worn from battle
And his steps have gotten slow
But he used to walk on water
Or it seemed that way to me
I know he moved some mountains
And never left his knees
Chorus
Strike up the band
Assemble the choir
Another soldier's coming home
Another warrior hears the call he's waited for so long
He'll battle no more
But he's won his wars
Make sure Heaven's table has room for at least one more
Sing a welcome song
Another soldier's coming home
Verse 2
He faced the winds of sorrow
But his heart knew no retreat
He walked in narrow places
Knowing Christ knew no defeat
But now his steps turn homeward
So much closer to the prize
He's sounding kind of homesick
And there's a longing in his eyes.
Chorus
Strike up the band
Assemble the choir
Another soldier's coming home
Another warrior hears the call he's waited for so long
He'll battle no more
But he's won his wars
Make sure Heaven's table has room for at least one more
Sing a welcome song
Another soldier's coming home…
My dad will be cremated today, and interment will be at the new National Cemetary in Canton, Georgia. Dad will receive full military honors there on Wednesday, February 7, at 1100.
I want to thank everyone for your prayers for strength, your encouragement, and especially for the honor you've shown my dad. God bless you all.
Heart of Georgia
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