Two Dads from the Greatest Generation

Greatest Generation
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
"The Greatest Generation" is a term coined by journalist Tom Brokaw to describe the generation who grew up in the United States during the deprivation of the Great Depression, and then went on to fight in World War II, as well as those whose productivity within the war's home front made a decisive material contribution to the war effort. The generation is sometimes referred to as the G.I. Generation (a term coined by authors William Strauss and Neil Howe who are known for their generational theory). It follows the Lost Generation of the 1920s who fought in World War I and precedes the Silent Generation of the 1930s who did not turn 18 until after the war was over. Most baby boomers were the children of the Greatest Generation, although some were also silent generation. Their grandchildren are mostly of Generation Y and the latter part of Generation X. The youngest members of the Greatest Generation may have Generation Z grandchildren.


Today is Memorial Day and our dads fought in WWII and survived to come home and raise families and lead productive lives. Technically, this is a day to remember those who didn't come home. Our beloved dads are both gone now and the line blurs when we remember them today. They were both proud of their service and we so proud of them. T's dad served in the U.S.Navy on the USS Babbitt, a class of ship informally called a Tincan Destroyer. They patrolled the sea helping to protect Allied vessels and shipping lanes in the cold and icy North Atlantic off Iceland and Ireland. My dad was part of the Army Air Corps, serving in the C.B.I. Theatre, as a part of the U.S. Air Transport Command. He was stationed in Assam, Northern India, a technician who worked on the planes traveling over the Hump. Those planes carried cargo, mail, essential war materials and troops in support of tactical operations in China, including evacuations of the sick and wounded.

They served long and hard and they are in our hearts today along with all those who never came home. Our flag is at half staff till noon in their honor. We're not confused, just remembering them along with all those long gone.

What is the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?

Many people confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle. While those who died are also remembered, Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank and honor ALLthose who served honorably in the military - in wartime or peacetime. In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank LIVING veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served - not only those who died - have sacrificed and done their duty. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs


For the Record,
This day came in hazy hot and humid. 74 degrees, 88% humidity, barometer holding steady.