Memorial Day tradition

This morning I got to enjoy a neighborhood tradition with my daughter and her family.  One of their neighbors is a 92 year old veteran of WW2, a former gunner for the Marines.  Every Memorial Day, he shoots off his WW2 cannon, which is a highly anticipated activity by all the kids in the neighborhood and their parents.  (I'm not sure the pets like it though!) 

So, there I was, watching the fun while the boy scouts stopped by each house and planted a large American flag on their lawns.  It was such an idyllic sight.  The old veteran led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance then spoke about his loyalty to our country.  And then the cannon was lit and BAM!  the explosion reverberated throughout the neighborhood.  If anyone was sleeping in, they were now awake  :)

Most people think of Memorial Day as a day off work and a day to have picnics.  This frail old man reminded me that there is so much more to this day.  We honor those who sacrificed everything, even their lives to protect and defend our country.  How easy it is to forget this. 

Thank you dear old man for reminding me...