Observing Memorial Day

To the Editor:

Along with many other veterans and families of veterans and service members, I attended Memorial Day Services at VFW Post 308 and American Legion Post 202 this morning.

Of particular note was the cards made for each veteran by Brownie Troop 611 and the recognition of veterans and family members by Senior Scout Troop 478.

As a boy, I remember Memorial Day parades in which veterans from World War I were able to walk the entire parade route. Fellow veterans followed them from World War II and the Korean War. Over the years the World War I veterans grew feeble and rode in cars. Then finally they were no more. Now we see the World War II veterans riding in parades as the years gain on them.

The thing we see too little of is Memorial Day events. As Herb Rosenthal said in his remarks, … “freedom is not free…” I hope and pray my grandchildren will live in a world that knows no war, but if that is not to be then I hope they will live in a world that remembers those who paid for their freedom.

To the young ladies of the Brownies and Girl Scouts, remember this day for many years and your role in this celebration. Thank you for recognizing veterans and their families and helping us remember those who paid for our freedom with their lives.

Yours truly,

R P Gottmeier

13 Antler Pine Road, Sandy Hook                                   May 24, 2003