As a US Navy veteran myself, I always look forward to remembering those who went before as well as celebrating those who served after me. In the wake of last week’s horrendous shooting at Fort Hood, the sacrifices of our uniformed men and women are more at the forefront then they have been in some time.

Today, however, is not the time for debating the rationality of political correctness in the United States military. There is a time and a place for that, and I do hope the discussion arises and is fruitful. On my mind today is the memory of those who fought, those who died, to make this nation a more free and safe place for their children and grandchildren, your children and grandchildren, and you.

I spent the first half of Saturday morning at a living history demonstration put on by the Texas Military Forces Museum at Camp Mabry. The event was called “1944 Close Assault.”

I often try to attend events that I can that bring our military history to life and I was not disappointed by this effort. The format was more personal and instructional than any WWII event I had ever been to. Each weapon was displayed and demonstrated after a brief history was given. A short reenactment of a small unit attacking a fortified position was then given. The terrors these men faced were more apparent in the closer setting of this event, as was their bravery.

One of the things that stuck out in my thoughts that day though was that the crowd was much smaller than I have seen in the past at such events. Perhaps it was because I was at the morning event. I do hope more people showed up for the afternoon show.

I was pleased to see a few WWII vets in the audience and I always focus on their reactions to the presentations. You could see in their eyes their mental recollections of those days of their youth spent in fox-holes and trenches. The pride as they sat taller in their seats when the speaker touched on something they had experienced personally.

For all those that served and are serving, I thank you.

Additional Resources

Veterans Day Lesson Plans