Military Ball

Over the weekend, Dave and I attended a Military Ball in Spring Grove.  Eight years ago two local ladies of this small community in southeast Minnesota wanted something to thank veterans, and this event was organized. 

We had plans to attend two years ago just one week after the funeral.  I just didn't feel up to it, so Dave took Emily as his date.  Oddly enough, as they were getting out of the car, they spotted our Patriot Guard ride captain, he was to be the main speaker that evening.  We didn't know him well at that time, and their unexpected presence at the event, over an hour south of Rochester, made him nervous.  Our family was part of his speech.

During the program this year we were introduced to a family of eight, seven of whom were in attendance.  The seven boys in the family had served our country during WWII, Korea, and Vietnam.  But the final family member is the one who paid the largest price of military service.  The only girl of eight had lost her son in Vietnam forty two years ago.  It was the reason the theme of the event was to honor Gold Star Mothers.  There were four mothers in attendance, two from Vietnam. 

It was an honor meeting these ladies.  At a time when war was an unpopular subject, they couldn't be publicly proud of their sons.  Mabel from Mabel, I love that and just had to put it in there, told me that if she could have spoken of him, she may have been able to move forward with more ease.  It makes me feel fortunate that things have changed.

The opportunities I have to meet people keep growing.  The stories I am privileged to hear help me to heal.  Although I am new to this process, I hope in some way I am returning the favor.