Trip of a Lifetime

Part of the reason Susann and I write these blogs is to  have a record of the things so that we can one day share with Robbie and Anna Helen as well as ourselves the things that, at least at the time, we thought were important during their childhood.

One of the things I really want them to understand is that they are a part of two amazing families.  In this blog I want to focus on the trip I took last week with my Father, Lacy Edwards.  We were able to take part in an Honor Flight from Myrtle Beach to DC.  Honor Flight is wonderful organization who's purpose is to fly World War II veterans to DC (for free) for a day to visit the service memorials and most importantly the World War II Memorial.  Time has almost caught the "Greatest Generation" (I am not crazy about that term by the way - I prefer the greatest so far) and many of them would never get a chance to see this beautiful monument that is dedicated to their service and sacrifice without the Honor Flight organization taking a hand.

We arranged for Dad to be on the flight and lead him to believe that he was going without one his family members going with him.  I was able to surprise him at the airport and spend the day honoring the man and other men who have given us our birthright as Americans.

The day was great in DC but the real highlight was when we returned to Myrtle Beach.  We got off the plane and there were a couple of folks at the gate to meet us.  The surprise was in the baggage claim area where I swear there was something like a thousand people waiting to great the returning veterans and to say thank you for their service.  We came down the elevator and turned the corner and there they were with the local Knights of Columbus in all their regalia forming a sword arch.  These veterans are not from the "dr. Spock" school of warm and fuzzy "share your feelings" moments.  Having said that many if not most were overwhelmed with emotion. 

It is truly amazing what a sincere thank you can mean.

Thank you Dad for you service to your Country and your family.  I can never repay all that you have done.  All I can do is try to do the same for Robbie and Anna Helen that you did for me.

We love you Pop.