I just left the wake where we rendered full airborne honors at our Treasurers wake. Joe was a glider trooper who did us proud and Im honored to have been there to officially send him off.

While driving home I realized that as the young active member, Id be likely doing this service over and over and over in the next few years and each no more heartbreaking that this one. What I thought was how other younger troopers neglect to become members, others become members and dont keep in touch, keep up to date or attend any of the functions and what an absolute shame it is.

As our WWII brothers leave this earth the one thing they deserve is our final respects and who is going to do it when the ranks of thier own generation are thinning so quickly? I thought about my own service and how much I will hope that my own family is honored by my brothers and sisters respecting my service and brotherhood to perform these honors for me upon my passing. Will there be anyone there? From the motivation of the younger troopers NOT to make an effort to be part of this organization it doesnt look good.

Tonight I realized that I'll be a young trooper burying each of the active members in our Chicago Chapter. I wish I didnt have to and I dont like to but its my duty and an honor.. but its HARD to do. Harder than making the time to go to meetings, to take time out to spend on this association and taking the time for these other troopers. But the sacrifice is worth it... Id rather take time out and miss a ball game, TV time or some other activity that means so much less to get together and show my respect and dedication to our airborne community.

BECAUSE I WISH MY HONORS TO BE AS PROUD AND MEANINGFUL AS THOSE RENDERED TODAY.

Those of you who line up each year with your excuse in hand should hang your head in shame because while you are off being busy in your life there are troopers who deserve our respect and attention. In making this sacrifice you might also come to realize that this is an association you may one day wish to have around... but if everyone harbors thier excuses, who's going to be there when you start looking?

I agree...I've been to more of those things than I care to recall and each one is a gut-wrencher.

However, it is OUR DUTY to honor the greatest generation, and that's why I keep going.

Hey cancer..."F" YOU!!!

ok ok ok damn!

I am going to go and wash the guilt off me.............not sure if Ivory can do that.

I called the Houston Chapter guy once and he never sent me anything. Get me some info.

The big question............when do I get my day off?

"The ones that run are VC......the ones that just stand there are well disciplined VC." 

- Door Gunner / Full Metal Jacket       Familyman411@yahoo.com