Remembering Dad

[bigjohn]

Thinking about Dad who passed away 2 years ago yesterday. Nothing unusual about that but thinking about him and getting a new update from Jim made me push it to the front of my mind.
Often in my thoughts are what he and the guys of the 106th went through during that bitter winter and at such a young age for most of them. Dad was 19 when captured and turned 20 while in captivity. He lived a few months more than 60 years since he was liberated and many of the conditions he got there were contributing factors to his death.
Being a vet myself (USN) I can appreciate more the sacrifices you guys made for future generations, both here and abroad. For all of you I say THANK YOU-I WILL REMEMBER.
For Dad-I think about you alot and hope to again see you one day. I know you and your buddies are up there reminiscing about days gone by.

[connie]

John,

I was touched when I read this post a few years back. Now it seems a fitting thread for other "remembering Dad" notes. It was 5 years ago today that my Dad slipped away to storm the beaches of Another Place.

Dad was older than the average soldier in the 106th when he hit the ETO. In fact he turned 28 during the crossing on the Wakefield. From where I sit now, 28 still looks pretty young. As I work with his letters from the war, I am more deeply aware every day what the men of the 106th endured. And the memory of those days, though spoken of by few, were never forgotten.

I agree. There must be one heck of a reunion taking place up there now-- with friends lost only recently and friends lost many years ago. I like your campfire thoughts. A friend who sat around campfires in France with Dad would certainly join in on this one. And Dad loved sitting around a fire. I'm also guessing there's probably a large enough of a contingent from the Division Band so my parents can once again dance to their music.

I remember the sacrifices made by your generation. But today most of all I remember you, Dad... and I'm grateful that you made it home.

Connie