The Fort Smith National Cemetery is not far from our home. Every Memorial Day we take the children there. In the past years, it has been a very difficult experience for me. To see so many graves, many of them fresh, and then to see the family members there... well, it is a lot to bear. Today was different because I guess I am used to it.
The cemetery was expanded in 1997, and we saw today it is being expanded further.
It is a beautiful, serene place. Clay's secretary lost a son in Iraq, and his grave is there. It is always decorated beautifully. Many are decorated only with the flag that the local Boy Scouts put out every year.
There are many tombstones that show the soldier fought in three wars. Amazing.
The children dread this trip. I hope someday they will remember these visits, and value our precious freedom.
3 comments:
It's good to remember. I always take the girls to our Memorial Day parade and sometimes they walk with their Girl Scout troops. This year as we were leaving--Elly asked me "What is Memorial Day about?" I was so surprised! I hope they remember attending and paying their respects to the men and women who protect our freedom.
Kate, I think it is fabulous that you do that. I have never been, but drive by on the way to the vet. I should stop sometime, but I perseverate on places like this and sometimes the mental anguish is too much to bear, you know? Should still do it one day.
Susan- I love parades! I think there was one here that we missed, so will strive to see it next year.
Julie- yes, I understand. It is a very emotional place!
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