Ancestor of the Month

Great-uncle Harry in WWI uniform.

It seems appropriate as Veteran’s Day approaches, to honor all those in my family tree that served in the United States Armed Forces.

Great-uncle Steve in dress uniform.

It is no small thing to enter into the service, knowing that you are risking everything, including the possibility of losing your own life. All of these individuals did not think twice about serving their country to protect the rights and values that had been instilled in them by their own families and communities.

Great-great uncles Kenneth and Charles in their WWI doughboy uniforms.

To date, these are the men that I have found in my family tree who served in the United States Armed Forces. Some of them I never knew. Some of them, I remember from my childhood while some of them have grown old with me into adulthood. There is also research documenting older ancestors who served in the Revolutionary War, too – obviously, no photos of them are available!

WWII Marine Great uncle Herb.

My research reveals that while wounded or shell-shocked from the horrible experiences of war, these men did not die in service to their country. They returned home to their parents, their wives, their sweethearts and their siblings.

Great uncle Carlyle on his WWII motocycle in Germany.

Great uncle Carlyle on his WWII motorcycle in Germany.

All were honorably discharged and several of them received not only commendations for their valor in battles won but medals for inordinate bravery including the Purple Heart. Some also ended their lives in the care of military hospitals or homes when their loved ones were no longer around to do so.

My father-in-law, 2nd Lt. Henry.

Each branch of the armed forces was represented by a variety of family members: the Army (including a sharpshooter ranger), the Navy (a bomber gunner), the Air Force and the Marines. No wonder that I love to hear and sing along with each of the branch’s representative songs at July 4th and Memorial Day concerts!