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- In Celebration of America – 246th Anniversary
- Inconceivable Courage – June 6, 1944
- Memorial Day – The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
- Forever Faithful
- New Year’s Eve – 1944
- Christmas Celebrated – WWII
- Pearl Harbor Heroes – 7 December 1941
- Honoring Our Veterans
- No Greater Glory – 3 February 1943
- Independence Day – 245th Anniversary
- D-Day’s 77th Anniversary – June 6, 1944
- Unwavering Valor – Memorial Day 2021
- A Christmas Truce in the Forest -1944
- Unexpected Hero of Pearl Harbor
- The Bagpiper of Normandy -1944
- WWII Thanksgiving for our Troops
- Their War Too, Military Women of WWII
- 75th Anniversary- The End of WWII
- VJ-Day 75th Anniversary
- An Inspiration to WWII Troops
- When Needed Most
- In Remembrance
- VE Day’s 75th Anniversary – May 8,1945
- A Christmas Truce – 1944
- Pearl Harbor Heroes
- Valor Delayed – 73 Years
- Our Enduring Anthem of 1814
- Inconceivable Courage – June 6, 1944
- A Rare Original “D-Day Clicker” Found
- A Widow’s Journey to a Husband’s Valor
- Classified British Life-savers in D-Day Landings
- The Passing of a Hero
- Capturing the Moment
- A Christmas Truce – 1944
- Home of the Brave – 11/11/18
- WWII Fighter Pilot, American Hero
- American Revolution 1775-1783
- Hallowed Ground – June 6, 1944
- In Gratitude
- Remembering American Liberators
- A Defining Moment – 13 November 1942
- Final Combat Mission – Aug 14, 1945
- Patton’s Prayer – Dec 22, 1944
- Patriotism Endures
- Japan Surrenders – Sept 2, 1945
- One Nation Indivisible
- A Family Hero – 17 February 1945
- Remembering Pearl Harbor
- Letters from War and Home
- Birth of an Anthem
- In Memory of Valor and Sacrifice
- Capturing Valor
- A Father’s Service, PT 161
- A Nation of Immigrants
- Remembering the Fallen
- Medal of Honor – Iwo Jima
- Raising the Flag
- In Eternal Remembrance
- Uncommon Valor – June 6, 1944
- A Nation Honors WWII Heroes
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Tag Archives: Veterans
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
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
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
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
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
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
Posted in American History, American Veterans
Tagged American History, Britain, Burma, United States, Vera Lynn, Veterans, Veterans Tribute, World War II, WWII history
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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
Posted in American History, American Veterans
Tagged American History, D-Day, Normandy, United States, Veterans, Veterans Tribute, World War II, WWII history
2 Comments
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
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
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
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
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
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
Posted in American History, American Veterans
Tagged American History, D-Day, Normandy, United States, Veterans, Veterans Tribute, World War II, WWII history
5 Comments
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Posted in American History, American Veterans
Tagged Family Veterans, Memorial Day, United States, Veteran Tributes, Veterans, WWII, WWII history
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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
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
In Eternal Remembrance
December 7, 1941 In Service and Sacrifice “The very soul of a nation is its heroes”
Posted in American History, American Veterans
Tagged Bill Johnson, Pearl Harbor, United States, Veterans, W N Royals, World War II, WWII history
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Uncommon Valor – June 6, 1944
NORMANDY ——————– For Those Recognized To All And Those Only Known To One “Lord, where did we get such men?” In Eternal Reverence and Gratitude For Your Sacrifice on Behalf of Freedom ————————— “Let every nation know, whether … Continue reading
Posted in American History, American Veterans
Tagged D-Day, June 6 1944, Normandy, United States, Veterans, WWII, WWII history
2 Comments
A Nation Honors WWII Heroes
————————– In long overdue recognition, Doolittle Tokyo Raiders of WWII have been honored with a Congressional Gold Medal. Bestowed for their tremendous valor and sacrifice at a pivotal point in our military history, it is one of our nation’s highest awards. Congressional Gold Medal Text ————————– Japan’s … Continue reading
In Profound Gratitude
In Memory of Supreme Sacrifice for Country 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 … Continue reading
WWII Tokyo Raiders Deserve Congressional Gold
Let’s not wait nearly 75 years to honor our veterans. All too often, acknowledgment for their commitment and valor is long-delayed or even denied. Such is the case for the WWII Doolittle Tokyo Raiders. On April 18, 1942, fueled by the need for action in … Continue reading
Family Veterans
Whether at present or in 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 your country, as well as your family. In a sacrifice repeated through time, … Continue reading
Hometown Heroes
ELLIS COUNTY VETERANS CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR First Lieutenant Jack Lummus, USMC Reserve Awarded posthumously for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity, at the risk of his own life, above and beyond the call of duty….He gallantly gave his life in … Continue reading
“We stand on the backs of their sacrifice. Their history is our tradition, as long as there are Americans to remember…”
On a cold and rainy Veterans Day in 2000, a crowd of over a thousand people gathered at the Ellis County Civic Center in Waxahachie, Texas. They came in tribute to veterans past and present to dedicate a beautiful monument … Continue reading
A Civil War Monument
There are many tributes to veterans across our nation. This blog notes one remarkable effort by a community and county in honoring their own, while expressing gratitude for all who serve. Their immortalized recognition started with this single statue. The Ellis County monument, … Continue reading
A Base of Honored Names
A fitting tribute to this Ellis County veterans monument are 1200 brick pavers engraved with names of veterans and laid in checker-board fashion. Each honored name stands alone – bordered by blank bricks on four sides. Proud families provided initial memorial funding … Continue reading
Modern Day Memorial
Creating a modern-day monument for Ellis County veterans was an ongoing process over many years. Like many small towns across America, life centered on the town square and Waxahachie was no exception. As a child in the 1960’s, one resident noticed the only … Continue reading
History and Reenactment
Capping each year’s Ellis County Veterans Appreciation Day ceremony is a WWII battle reenactment in Waxahachie’s historical town square and nearby train station. More than 200 living-history participants from six states congregate in authentically reproduced period uniforms and 60 military vehicles … Continue reading
In Viewing a Memorial, We Reflect on History and Sacrifice
These monuments are valued not only by those who appreciate our veterans but by veterans themselves. In 2000, as construction neared completion, the builder and crew, on site one day as a van appeared, watched a woman exit and approach them. She … Continue reading
In Celebration and Gratitude
ELLIS COUNTY VETERANS APPRECIATION DAY Over a span of thirteen years, this annual event has grown and evolved to create a truly remarkable occasion. It addresses our military conflicts from WWI to the War on Terror and includes all branches of service. The … Continue reading
Supporting Veteran Tributes
“We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude” “This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave” Elmer Davis WWII American Journalist First … Continue reading
Behind the Scenes in Honoring Veterans
Veterans are recognized and celebrated by many across this nation. One remarkable effort, in that regard, is the annual Ellis County Veterans Appreciation Day and the poignant memorial in tribute to their service. The following individuals and groups express a … Continue reading
Veterans Day
In attending Veterans Day events, we join voices in gratitude and celebration for the service of our military forces. The Ellis County Veterans Appreciation Day, a moving and emotional tribute, touches the hearts and minds of all in attendance. Held at … Continue reading
The Price of Freedom
Like many communities across the country, Ellis County has experienced the loss of its own veterans in the War on Terror. To honor those who have served and perished in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Middle East since 2001, a tablet … Continue reading
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged Ellis County, Ellis County Civic Center, Ellis County Veterans Appreciation Day, KIA, Korean War, Operation Enduring Freedom, United States, Veterans, Veterans Day, Veterans Tribute, Vietnam War, War on Terror, Waxahachie Texas, World War I, World War II
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