Today, July 4, 2010, I had the honor of replacing an aging U.S. flag for my father, Lloyd Evans. After a quick trip to GBS for a few small cable clamps, the flag replacement was completed in a few minutes. My father has been fighting a courageous battle with final stage cancer, and was unable to watch as the flag was replaced. However, much to my surprise he struggled to his feet, determined to walk out to see his new flag. He was overjoyed to see the new flag proudly waving in a fresh breeze.

It was a very solemn moment as he stood next to me, raising his weakened arm to salute the flag that means so much to him. That moment will forever be etched in my memory, as one of the proudest moments with my father.

He loves his homeland, and willingly fought, and served in Europe during the second World War, earning the Purple Heart for his battle wounds.

The moment also made me realize that this holiday, which celebrates our independence as a nation, must mean more to us than a day to barbecue, drink and shoot off fireworks. It must also be a day to honor those who fought, and those who are presently fighting for freedom, and independence around the world.

Ron Evans,
Madera

This entry was posted on Friday, July 9th, 2010 at 2:35 am and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.