Author Archives: Karen Evans

About Karen Evans

Advocate For Honoring Military Service

In Celebration of America – 246th Anniversary

July 4, 1776 – 2022 Forever May She Wave   As a Beacon of Hope     “Give me your tired, your poor,Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to … Continue reading

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Inconceivable Courage – June 6, 1944

Almighty God: Our sons and the pride of our Nation this day have set upon a mighty endeavor, a struggle to preserve our Republic, our religion, and our civilization, and to set free a suffering humanity. Lead them straight and … Continue reading

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Memorial Day – The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Commemorating over a Century of Honor 1921-2022   For over a 100 years, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has served as the heart of Arlington National Cemetery. As a sacred memorial site and the grave of three unknown American … Continue reading

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Forever Faithful

Still Standing Guard:  Today was the first snowfall of the year at Arlington National Cemetery and, as always, the Sentinels of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier were standing guard. The military guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier … Continue reading

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New Year’s Eve – 1944

Whether currently or years long past, those serving our country far from home deserve eternal gratitude. The Battle of the Bulge There were many battles during WWII and the Battle of the Bulge was another served by our forces valiantly … Continue reading

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Christmas Celebrated – WWII

For our WWII troops serving far from home, the celebration of Christmas was met in various ways…poignant packages from loved ones, a traditional meal, the decoration of a tree, and carols sung across the globe.      In Memory of … Continue reading

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Pearl Harbor Heroes – 7 December 1941

From the man who led the evacuation of the USS Arizona to the fighter pilot taking to the skies in pajamas, there were servicemen and civilians who distinguished themselves on one of the darkest days in American military history.  These … Continue reading

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Honoring Our Veterans

For Love of Country They Serve They Sacrifice and We Honor Their Commitment Their Valor In Gratitude For Our Freedom  Veterans Day 2021 ” Never in the History of the World, have others Sacrificed more for the Freedom and Liberty of All “

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No Greater Glory – 3 February 1943

  Four Chaplains and the Sinking of the USAT Dorchester In the early morning hours of 3 February 1943, First Sergeant Michael Warish nearly gave up hope as he floated helplessly in the freezing waters of the North Atlantic.  Just … Continue reading

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Independence Day – 245th Anniversary

Let us remember the true meaning of this day and our country’s principles “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these … Continue reading

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D-Day’s 77th Anniversary – June 6, 1944

    A Family Remembers Liberation:  Saint-Mere-Eglise, 1944 In the early hours of June 6, 1944, a man knocked loudly on the door of Alexandre Renaud, Mayor of Sainte-Mère-Église.  Since the town’s occupation by the enemy in 1940 there had … Continue reading

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Unwavering Valor – Memorial Day 2021

In Remembrance   Whether at present or long past, so many are families of veterans. Their commitment and service is a legacy to succeeding generations on true values in life… honoring our country and those who willingly serve.  In a … Continue reading

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A Christmas Truce in the Forest -1944

Christmas 1944 December 24th It was Christmas Eve 1944 and the last desperate German offensive of World War II raged around our tiny cabin.  When we heard the sudden knock on our door, neither Mother nor I had the slightest … Continue reading

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Unexpected Hero of Pearl Harbor

When the attack on Pearl Harbor began, Doris “Dorie” Miller was working laundry duty on the USS West Virginia. Enlisting in the Navy at age 19 in 1939, Miller had longed to expand his life and contribute extra money to … Continue reading

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The Bagpiper of Normandy -1944

Commonly known as Piper Bill, Private William Millin was personal piper to Simon Fraser, 15th Lord Lovat and Commander of 1 Special Service Brigade at D-Day. A commando brigade of the British Army, it was formed during the Second World … Continue reading

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WWII Thanksgiving for our Troops

Throughout U.S. involvement overseas, military officials did their best to provide a traditional, hot holiday meal for our soldiers. In 1943, the American people sent two liberty ships fully stocked with Thanksgiving supplies for those serving abroad. Included were turkeys, … Continue reading

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Their War Too, Military Women of WWII

During World War II, women’s service to their country was not limited to the factory floor.  It is true that millions of women were hired to work in factories and thousands were hired to work on farms through the Women’s … Continue reading

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75th Anniversary- The End of WWII

September 1, 1939 – September 2, 1945 World War II, also known as the Second World War, was a global war lasting from 1939 to 1945. It involved the vast majority of the world’s countries—including all the great powers—forming two … Continue reading

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VJ-Day 75th Anniversary

On August 14, 1945, it was announced that Japan had surrendered unconditionally to the Allies, effectively ending World War II.  To that effort, the United States had dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki respectively on August 6 and 9, … Continue reading

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An Inspiration to WWII Troops

British Singer and Songwriter Vera Lynn An inspiration who brought hope, happiness, and thoughts of home, if only briefly, to those who needed it most. Early Years Vera Welch was born on 20 March 1917 in East Ham, London.  Neither … Continue reading

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When Needed Most

  A Staggering Scale At 10:00 pm on 5 June 1944, Allied troops began departing from British shores on the English Channel in launching a successful invasion of German-occupied western Europe.  Five assault groups set sail under darkness in an … Continue reading

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In Remembrance

Unwavering Valor   Whether at present or years long past, so many of us are families of veterans. Their commitment and service is a legacy to succeeding generations on true values in life… honoring our country and those who serve. … Continue reading

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VE Day’s 75th Anniversary – May 8,1945

The End of World War II in Europe REIMS, France  — World War II ended in a French schoolhouse 75 years ago when German commanders signed their surrender to Allied forces. Unlike the massive celebrations greeting the momentous news in … Continue reading

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A Christmas Truce – 1944

What more profound compassion at Christmas than to enemies in the midst of war Christmas 1944 December 24th Three American soldiers, one badly wounded, were lost in the snow-covered Ardennes forest.  They wandered for three days, unable to find their … Continue reading

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Pearl Harbor Heroes

From the man who led the evacuation of the USS Arizona to the fighter pilot taking to the skies in pajamas, there were servicemen and civilians who distinguished themselves on one of the darkest days in American military history.  These … Continue reading

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Valor Delayed – 73 Years

  Lt. Garlin Murl Conner Second-most Decorated WWII Soldier Not Awarded the Medal of Honor LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Lt. Garlin Murl Conner left the U.S. Army as the second-most decorated soldier during World War II, earning four Silver Stars, four Bronze Stars, … Continue reading

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Our Enduring Anthem of 1814

The Star-Spangled Banner On September 13, 1814, the lyrics to our national anthem were penned by Francis Scott Key.  An American lawyer, author, and amateur poet from Georgetown and Washington, D.C., he was inspired by witnessing the sight of our … Continue reading

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Inconceivable Courage – June 6, 1944

Almighty God: Our sons and the pride of our Nation this day have set upon a mighty endeavor, a struggle to preserve our Republic, our religion, and our civilization, and to set free a suffering humanity. Lead them straight and … Continue reading

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A Rare Original “D-Day Clicker” Found

    In a desperate bid to retrieve a missing part of history from June 6, 1944, a campaign was launched to mark the 75th Anniversary of D-Day and the veterans who served and were likely saved by it.  A … Continue reading

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A Widow’s Journey to a Husband’s Valor

July 17, 1944 Peggy and 1st Lt. Billie D. Harris (USAF) were married six weeks prior to his deployment in WWII.  Billie, a fighter pilot, would fly his last mission on July 17, 1944 over Nazi-occupied northern France.  With his … Continue reading

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Classified British Life-savers in D-Day Landings

In approaching the 75th Anniversary of D-Day, perhaps there is history, unbeknownst to many, on safeguards instilled for British and American paratroopers prior to 156,000 American, British and Canadian forces landing at Normandy, June 6, 1944 – along a 50-mile … Continue reading

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The Passing of a Hero

Lt Col. Richard E. Cole 1915 – 2019 The last surviving member of the WWII Doolittle Tokyo Raiders has passed away at 103.  2nd Lt Richard Cole was one of 80 airmen volunteering for the highly classified and dangerous operation, … Continue reading

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Capturing the Moment

Miracle on the Hudson America’s military veterans never fail to persevere and inspire in their duty and missions.  How many iconic moments have forever been forged in our minds, our hearts, and on film to commemorate and revisit their heroism … Continue reading

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A Christmas Truce – 1944

Christmas 1944 December 24th Three American soldiers, one badly wounded, were lost in the snow-covered Ardennes forest.  They wandered for three days, unable to find their unit.  If shelter was not found soon, the injured soldier would most likely die. … Continue reading

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Home of the Brave – 11/11/18

Capt. John H. “Lucky” Luckadoo John Luckadoo was born March 16, 1922 in Chattanooga, Tennessee.  For John, the climate made it a depressing area to be raised as a boy and he longed to leave one day.  Set on the … Continue reading

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WWII Fighter Pilot, American Hero

Major M. Brooks, a P-38 and P-47 fighter pilot during WWII, flew nearly a hundred missions in support of Allied troops, including Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. Having flown 82 combat missions by the age of 23, Captain … Continue reading

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American Revolution 1775-1783

Paul Revere “seldom has the tomb closed upon a life so honorable and useful” There were many who contributed to the American Revolution and the conflict for independence between our “Thirteen Colonies” and Great Britain.  Paul Revere, a Patriot leader … Continue reading

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Hallowed Ground – June 6, 1944

  A farm boy from Ohio, Robert Blatnik enlisted with the Army in 1938 in determined desire to serve his country.  Assigned to the 1st Division, 26th Infantry, he worked with combat intelligence and proved skilled in drafting topographical maps … Continue reading

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In Gratitude

Honoring the service and sacrifice of our Fallen The passage of time should not diminish our gratitude for service and sacrifice to our country The American Revolution 1775 – 1783 Soldiers serving in the Continental Army fought on behalf of … Continue reading

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Remembering American Liberators

Faces of Margraten The Dutch have never forgotten their American Liberators.  Each year, as their cemetery hosts the Faces of Margraten and United Adopters of American War Graves, a unique tribute honors the men and women buried and memorialized there. In … Continue reading

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A Defining Moment – 13 November 1942

The Sullivan Brothers Following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in December of 1941, the Sullivan brothers enlisted in the U.S. Navy, January 3, 1942, with the stipulation they serve together.  All five brothers, in accordance with their wishes, were … Continue reading

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Final Combat Mission – Aug 14, 1945

 In Memoriam Captain Jerry Yellin, American fighter pilot, flew the final combat mission of WWII in targeting a military-airfield near Tokyo on August 14, 1945.     Yellin had enlisted in the United States Army Air Force on his 18th birthday, February 2, … Continue reading

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Patton’s Prayer – Dec 22, 1944

Many know the story of General Patton’s prayer for better weather in order to more efficiently kill the Germans in the winter of 1944.  Few know of his Christmas Greeting that was issued along with the prayer. Contrary to popular … Continue reading

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Patriotism Endures

Van T. Barfoot Second Lieutenant, US Army   A Good Man to Remember Author Unknown Van T. Barfoot Died… Remember the guy who wouldn’t take the flagpole down on his Virginia property?  You might remember the news story several months … Continue reading

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Japan Surrenders – Sept 2, 1945

Although the surrender of Imperial Japan was announced on August 15, 1945, the hostilities of World War II ended with the formal signing aboard the USS Missouri on September 2nd. Japanese representatives present for the surrender ceremonies included Foreign Minister … Continue reading

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One Nation Indivisible

Let us remember the true meaning of this day and our country’s principles “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these … Continue reading

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A Family Hero – 17 February 1945

MEMORIAL DAY We commemorate family members with pride, love, and sorrow for their ultimate sacrifice in service. Entering the Air Corps in 1940, Rufus Wilson served in England, Ireland, France and Germany. Wounded in action on a B-26 mission in the Battle of Remagen during … Continue reading

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Remembering Pearl Harbor

December 7, 1941 Japan’s surprise attack on Pearl Harbor was a defining moment for our country and  propelled the United States into World War II.   Millions of Americans prepared to  enlist and serve for the devastation and losses suffered. With twenty-one American … Continue reading

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Letters from War and Home

In honoring Veterans Day, we also recognize the human toll on separated families and those who serve.  Our soldiers, and those cherished by them, express their current existence, their love and dearest thoughts, and perhaps final expressions of hope and regret in letters from … Continue reading

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Birth of an Anthem

Francis Scott Key An American lawyer, author, and amateur poet from Georgetown and Washington D.C., Francis Scott Key penned the lyrics to the United States’ national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” During the War of 1812, Key, accompanied by British Prisoner … Continue reading

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In Memory of Valor and Sacrifice

“Never in the history of the world has a country sacrificed more for the freedom and liberty of all.”   When we mourn for such men who have died, ….we should thank God that such men were born.                                              – Gen. George … Continue reading

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Capturing Valor

Iwo Jima February 23, 1945 Five U.S. Marines and a Navy Corpsman Raised the American Flag On February 19, 1945, the United States invaded Iwo Jima as part of  its strategy to defeat Japan.  Although not originally a target, the relatively swift … Continue reading

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A Father’s Service, PT 161

We honor our fathers for their presence in our lives.  For those who are veterans, we should also remember their service. LT JOHN MCELROY, USN Prior to Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941, John McElroy had never considered the military … Continue reading

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A Nation of Immigrants

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, and that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness” In 1886, a gift from the … Continue reading

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Remembering the Fallen

Ode of Remembrance They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, We will remember them.      … Continue reading

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Medal of Honor – Iwo Jima

Defining a Hero        FIRST LIEUTENANT JACK LUMMUS,  USMC RESERVE CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR,  WWII As  individuals of distinguished courage or ability, duly recognized for valiant service and  heroic qualities,  they  fearlessly  sacrifice  for  a  higher purpose. Awarded posthumously to First Lieutenant … Continue reading

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Raising the Flag

Iwo Jima  February 23, 1945 Five U.S. Marines and a Navy Corpsman raise the American flag in the Battle of Iwo Jima Regarded  as one of the most significant and recognizable images of WWII, three Marines depicted in the photograph would be killed … Continue reading

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In Eternal Remembrance

December 7, 1941 In Service and Sacrifice “The very soul of a nation is its heroes”

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