A WW2 Thanksgiving, 1942

As we sit down to enjoy the feast and family of the season, let us keep in mind those who came before us to make the celebration of this day possible.  Our world would look so very different if it were not for those brave enough to sacrifice themselves in order to protect our way of life.  Keep those of service in your prayers.

So, what did Thanksgiving look like in the time of war?  Well, here is what the guys in the R.C.A.F. 111(F) Squadron were up to Thanksgiving day on Kodiak Island, November 26th, 1942, as they were on guard, ready to defend our land.  This entry was taken from the Squadron diary.

R.C.A.F. Mess Hall, 1943

November 26th, 1942

"The Squadron had a very fine, "Thanksgiving Meal" at noon with turkey and all the trimmings, and in the evening a luncheon consisting of cold meats, cold salads, beer and smokes. Flight Sergeant Staples, H.M acted as Master of Ceremonies, and handled the affair very capably. There were speeches by Squadron Leader Boomer, Flight Lieutenant Webb and Flying Officer Farrell. Several members of the Squadron released their hidden talents and community singing was enjoyed by all. Some of the personnel took advantage of the invitation which had been extended by the 401st Bombardment Squadron, U.S. Army Air Corps and went to their Mess Hall around 2030 hours. Weather conditions bad, runways poor. Flying time today totaled zero zero hours."

Looks like a rare, relaxing (can you say that during a time of war?) day thanks to the lousy weather.  I guess, in this case, the clouds, wind and freezing rain was on their side...


Here is wising you all a very happy and blessed Thanksgiving!

Veterans Day- All Day, Every Day

2016 Veterans Day has come and gone and many of you may be wondering where my standard Veterans Day post is.  The fact of the matter is that November 11th is most certainly a day worth celebrating but I can't help but feel that every day there are veterans deserving of a celebration, recognition and honor.  Why limit it to just one day?

Although I remained somewhat silent, I did enjoy carousing around Facebook and reading the tributes to all of your family members, random strangers, the active and the fallen and the men and the women of those dedicated to our way of freedoms.  This particular tribute from 2014 struck me strongly.   What an inspiration this little boy, of only 6 years, is.   To have the depth of understanding of the sacrifices our WW2 veterans made, was incredibly moving and gives me hope that our younger generation will keep the legacies of this group alive.   Personally, it is something I have tried to teach my, now 13 year old, daughter over the years.   And as it turns out, she may have been listening!  This year, she gave her very own tribute to our veterans, in the form of a play,  in front of the entire school!  An immensely proud Mama moment indeed.  Please take a moment to watch this little man's act of gratitude for those who gave up so much for the sake and safety of so many.

And let's use these young ones as an inspiration to discover ways we can show our appreciation to every vet we encounter.  Paying homage to our brave military men and women who proudly don the uniform in defense of our beloved country and the freedoms we so indulgently enjoy should always be in the back of our minds.  So, I encourage you to look for ways to celebrate Veterans Day everyday by reaching out to our service men and women and thanking them for their tireless service.  Even the simplest act of a handshake, a greeting, a smile or a kind word is all it takes to show them our heartfelt gratitude,  for this group of people are the humblest among us.  It is the least we can do.


With that, on November 12th and everyday forward, I wish you a very Happy Veterans Day!