A tribute to those that gave so much to defend their countries.
You can't look at the names on the Wall, the graveyards at Normandie or gaze at the 888,000 poppies without coming to tears, mourning the terrible loss and acknowledging the courage of the special men and women we salute .
Please take a moment to think of the fallen and their families as we recognize Armistice and Veterans Day.
At the eleventh day of the eleventh month, we celebrate the end of the "War to End All Wars".
When will we ever learn.

 

Probably never,

however this arvo (after work) I'll hoist a few jars to some friends I've lost along the way.

 

Thanks, Steve, great shots.
Would love to know the story of that last brother.

Would love to find him the right watch.

 

Typical soldier, didn't even return his issue boots when he was discharged ;-)
(I'm sure none of us ever kept issue equipment)

And what a face, so full of character and sadness, it really is a symbol of the ones who came back but can never forget.

 

I wish I could make out his medals clearer, the one with the colored ribbon is the WWI Victory medal but I don't recognize the cross, maybe awarded by the French?

James, thank you for your service and Steve @N2FHL (even the Air Force counts, Steve!) !
I bet there are many, many more on this forum than just the three of us.

 

I hope Mr. Ambrose lived to see the Korean War memorial open a few years later.

 

To those who served, suffered and sacrificed for us.

 

Thanks Jim. (coming from you that means something).

While I'm proud of my service (in our Navy and Air Force ) it was a career mostly spent just loving my work, punctuated by occasional periods of sphincter exercises.

It was insignificant compared to the unimaginable conditions many of the WW1 and WW2 (and Korea and Vietnam) soldiers, sailors and airmen endured.

That's why I have immense respect for those who didn't get home, many of whom just went in the knowledge it would be a one way trip.

I'll dedicate a special Glenfiddich 25YO tonight to the memory of the mates I lost in Vietnam, and all of those other ghostly figures marching alongside them.

 

We thank them all for the way we live today

Next time you organize a beer have it at your local RSL , Returned Veterans Club or even a six-pack at your local war memorial.

 

I for one shall be sitting in silence attempting a manly disposition, and failing as usual.
Apologies to those who have seen some of my postcard collection previously.

 

To all those who served or sacrificed so others could. My greatest respect. Regards, bill

 

I really wish I had kept my combat boots. The dress boots not so much, but the combat boots were soooo comfortable...

I have my belt and beret, but that's all I kept.

Anyway, will certainly be observing a moment of silence here this morning.