Veteran's Day

 

                        God bless our veterans. 

My veteran. Lt. Elbert Barton, U.S. Navy

over 22 years of service

in both Korea and Vietnam

1930-1911

Memorial Day Tribute

Memorial Day has gotten me thinking, remembering, wishing....

My husband spent over 22 years in the Navy, fought in Korea and Vietnam. He was a proud sailor, I was proud of him. And, thank God, he made it home.

So many of our military did not 'made it back'. But, they did go home to be with their buddies who gave their lives so that we might have freedom. 

People wish each other 'Happy Memorial Day'. Well, there is nothing happy about losing your life, about being the family left behind. I can not imagine the pain. It's not a time of celebration with barbeques, parties and such. It's a time to honor the sacrifice they all made. 

My Favorite Veteran

                         My Favorite Veteran

I met this man when I was fourteen! Thought he was the cutest thing since sliced bread. He enlisted in the Navy as an SA (seaman apprentice) and we 'dated' through Uncle Sam's mail service. He even proposed to me in a letter. I still have it. 

For the next 22 1/2 years he served his country with dignity, honor and passion. He was in the battle of Inchon in Korea and other battles. He was a radioman so he was among the first to land on the beach so he could establish communications with the ship and the ground crew hitting the beach fighting. 

Much later, he was on an ammunition ship carrying nuclear warheads to our troops in Vietnam. 

He eventually became an officer through the Limited Duty Officer program. His first assignment as Ensign was as Communications Officer at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis. 

He retired from the Navy in 1969, having served his country well. He was a dedicated sailor, family man and child of God. He seldom angered, was always whistling, smiling,  telling jokes and enjoying life. 

I was honored to be his wife.....

                                  Latane