Veteran's Day Heroes

[rpcrowe]

Yesterday, November 11th was Veteran's Day in the USA. It began as Armistice Day commemorating the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 when the armistice stopped the fighting in World War One, then known as the Great War. The name was later changed to Veteran's Day, in the U.S.A. to recognize the sacrifices of American veterans in our wars and conflicts.

I expected to get a shot of a bugler or the color guard at the Escondido, California Veteran's Day memorial service. However, I decided that these two young heroes signified the meaning of this day...



He is a Marine Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) member who lost both legs when a improvised explosive device detonated during his tour in Afghanistan. His lovely spouse is an ex-swim team member from Boise State University. They met and married after his loss of both legs. He is a hero and she is equally a hero for recognizing that this young man was not any less a man because of his missing legs.

I wish them a long and happy life together. I felt humbled when I met them...

[tbob]

I thought about a comment; your image and words are sufficient.

[John 2]

I can only echo Trevor's comment Richard. And I agree, his wife's humanity in the face of the injuries caused by the inhumanity of others just has to be applauded.

[rpcrowe]

Additionally, although his gaining such a lovely wife (heck, anyone gaining a wife that lovely) is certainly not a usual occurrence for a vet wounded that critically; it could serve as a morale booster for some young men or women who think that because of their losses, no member of the opposite sex would be interested in them...

The story of these two young people has been documented, along with many other such stories in a book co-authored by, my neighbor, Bob Hamer with Oliver North: "American Heroes on The Homefront".



I think that the cover of this book is extremely well done and I would be proud to have originated that image. The desaturated camouflage background and the Purple Heart Medal pinned to the boot front are great touches. (Incidently: the Purple Heart Medal is awarded to American service members wounded in combat operations...)

BTW: When I met this wonderful young man, I was wearing my Vietnam Combat Veteran ball cap; which I wear to patriotic events like this. When I thanked him for my service, he said, "and thank you for your service too!" What a humble and wonderful guy!

[zen]

All I can say is . . . WOW!

Zen