I wrote and published this article a long time ago, but I felt it was fitting to share it today on Veterans Day. Thank you to all of the veterans who have served our country and thank you to their families who have supported and encouraged them.
The Pride in Grandfather’s Face
As a child, I saw him as an imposing figure. I remember seeing his strong, callused hands tossing hay bales into the barn. I like to watch as he scattered grain for the chickens. He strode briskly about the farm, doing his chores while I tagged along. I would listen to him talk with other adults; he seemed so wise. Most of all, I remember feeling a kind of awe in his presence. That man was my grandfather.
As I grew older, I began to realize just how hard he had worked building his farm and family. The stories my mother told both impressed and inspired me. I learned that he had been valedictorian of his high school class, but had given up hopes of college when his mother died, so he could help his father on the farm.
I heard how he had led the family through the Great Depression, and how he escaped and had to crawl home after being pierced in the leg by a bull’s horn. He was (and still is) involved in community and church, always ready to lend a helping hand. He put in long, hard hours of strenuous labor on the farm, never complaining. And, through all of the tough times, he always managed to find the strength and courage not only to go on, but to succeed.
Throughout my teenage years, I remember hearing him speak passionately about America. Although he had never served in the Armed Forces, I knew he felt strongly about the people who defend our country and protect our freedom. There was pride in his voice when he talked about my uncle and two cousins who served in the military. I wanted to be like my grandfather, a strong, proud American with values. And, I wanted him to be proud of me.
So, after my senior year of high school, I enlisted in the Army. My grandfather said nothing, but I felt that he was surprised and a little shocked since I was the first female in the family to do so.
On the day I took my oath, I thought my grandfather and his farm. I was determined to work as hard at being a soldier as he did being a farmer.
With my grandfather’s lessons as my guide, I began my tour with the Army. First, I went to Fort Dix, NJ, where I completed both basic (as Soldier of the Cycle) and advanced individual training. Then I was assigned to a transportation battalion at Fort Campbell, KY. I worked hard and always tried to do my best.
A few years after I joined I happened to have my battalion commander, a lieutenant colonel, riding in my truck during a field exercise. He asked me why I had joined the Army. I told him about my grandfather. The commander seemed interested and asked quite a few questions about him before we eventually changed the subject.
A couple of days later my platoon sergeant told me the battalion commander would like my grandfather’s address. I gave it to him. Although I was a little curious, I soon forgot about it.
A few weeks later, my mother told me that the commander had written Grandfather a letter of praise about me. My mother said Grandfather had announced to the family that he would read the letter aloud at our traditional Memorial Day picnic. I decided I would try to come to the picnic and surprise him.
Luckily, I managed to get a four-day pass and catch a ride for the long journey. When I arrived, my grandfather was surprised, but didn’t say much.
Finally, when the last hot dog had been eaten, Grandfather stood up at the head of the table. He read the battalion commander’s letter. As he finished I thought I saw a hint of moisture in his eyes. My heart was so full I thought it would burst.
After serving a few more years, I decided to leave the Army. As I packed all of my military belongings into my duffel bag, I looked with pride at the awards and medals I had earned. What I cherished the most, however, was not an award, but the memory of my grandfather’s face as he read the commander’s letter.
Special thanks to all the women veterans who paved the way for me to serve.
WASP Betty Jo Reed – I had the honor and opportunity to set up an event honoring women veterans, featuring this amazing woman as the keynote speaker. Even more amazing, she invited me to her house and shared some wonderful stories of her life with me.
Local Veterans Day Events:
Texas Woman’s University Veterans Day Celebration
University of North Texas Veterans Day Celebration
UNT Women’s Studies Presents Lioness
Richard Haas – War of Necessity, War of Choice
You might also enjoy:
Women are Veterans Too
Women in the Military
