Rememebring An American Hero (11/11/2020)

On Christmas day, 1944 American troops shivered in the freezing cold in the snow-covered Ardennes forest of eastern Belgium. They were defending against Germany's last offensive in World War II. This was known as the Battle of the Bulge and there would be over 89,000 American casualties. The "Bulge" was the largest and bloodiest single battle fought by the United States in World War II. These braves soldiers held the line during unbearable conditions until December 26th when they were relieved by General George S. Patton's Third Army.

My Uncle Frankie served in the U.S. First Army which occupied the Ardennes region. Like many of our greatest generation, Uncle Frankie never discussed his time at war, so I know little about his military service. It wasn't until years after he had passed away that I discovered that he was the recipient of both the Bronze Star and Purple heart.

The Bronze Star is awarded for valor in combat. The Purple Heart is a United States military decoration awarded in the name of the President to those wounded or killed while serving with the U.S. military. The Purple Heart is the oldest military award still given to U.S. military members.

I remember Uncle Frankie every Christmas and on my birthday. These are the times when I receive greeting cards. On these special occasions, Uncle Frankie always sent me a card enclosed with a five-dollar bill. To many this may seem a modest gift but Uncle Frankie was an impoverished man. Yet he never forgot, two cards came every year. As I got older, I felt a sense of guilt and wished that he would use the money for himself. What I did not realize was that my uncle was a very wise man. He had made an investment and now his investment was paying a dividend. I think of him at least twice a year and I never forget him.

Seventy-six years ago, some very brave men made a great sacrifice so that we may celebrate a peaceful Christmas. Please remember our service men (past, present and future) on this special night.