I grew up during World War II, in all the ways a person can. The mood was sober and concentrated, but people were friendly for the most part. Military people were held in high esteem. They got the free meals and the best seats, no one complained. Their lives were on the line for us and we knew it. Solders with their thumbs up on the highway were never passed, and usually taken straight to their destination. It was a far different world than today.
I helped my brother throw a morning newspaper route. Then, in the evenings get out my little red wagon, and collect newspapers, metal, especially aluminum to take to school where there was a large bin to hold them. They were picked up and recycled for the war effort.
It was not uncommon the see a Jeep with two uniformed officers driving down our street. Everyone knew that another family was receiving a Gold Star and news of the loss of a loved one. I also collected money for recent Gold Star families for a wreath to put on their door. Most everyone did something for the war effort. The whole country felt the weight of the war.
I post this for Veterans Day on November 11, to remind us of the sacrifices of military people who willingly lay down their lives for us and the cause of freedom. May we never allow anyone to attack our system of Constitutional Law.
Veterans Day November 11.
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