Every July 3rd we go see the Houston Symphony perform an outdoor patriotic concert. Yes, it’s hot and humid, but it’s too good to miss. But no matter what else is on the program, the high point for me is always the Service Medley, when they play the song of each branch of the military and ask every current or former member to stand during their branch’s song. I got to take my dad once before he died. I wish you and your grandson could experience that, him for the ovation, and you for the lump in your throat you would have.
Some years ago I was at a concert by the Sac band- from the Sac base at Omaha- it was the first time I had that lump, and perhaps the most moving. My brothers were Korea conflict era vetrans, my father being the stubborn Dane he was left Denmark partially to avoid being drafted in WW1, iin Denmark, but after coming the US he enlisted. “It as the right thing to do.” Translation- don’t tell me what to do....but yeah I will do it.
Dad was shot up pretty badly and gassed in France. He never complained about the life-long debilitating effects, and he never ever talked about the war.
I like where I live but while we have good concerts, normally not opportunities for that kind of concert.
I have had numerous cousins serve in the past. Most of my grand kids are just getting to the age to be thinking of military.
And for the record I do not want my grandkids in Iraq or any where else. But I do not want any one else’s grandkids there either. However, one does what needs to be done and I support them in their choice.