A1000YrdStare03
06-02-2012, 12:42
I attended a 5k run for veterans today, and it impacted me more than I thought it would. First, was the turn out. there were over 2,000 applicants for this event, veterans running in cammies, and boots carrying flags, it was pretty awesome. But there was a memorial there of hanging dog tags which represented all who were lost in the war in Iraq, and Afghanistan. It was a pretty powerful display. Next to this display was Mr. Scherer. He was selling t-shirts, and sweatshirts, in honor of his son Chris who was killed in action in 2007. His son was with the 1st Combat Engineer Battalion. I was wearing a Marine Corps hat, so he notice I was a Marine, and we chatted for a bit. The proceeds of his shirt sales was going to go to care packages shipped overseas for the troops serving now. After talking for a while he handed me a challenge coin which had a picture of his son. On the back of the coin it says "For love of country they accepted death, be strong and of good courage". Him giving this to me struck a nerve with me. I realize why he gave it to me after I read the coin. By putting out a picture of his son allowed people who didn't know him to get to know who he was. I think in his mind it keeps Chris alive. Under the picture of Chris it said "keep walking". This was an extemely nice guy, and he was very, very proud of his son, and he should be. I bought a sweatshirt from him with a memorial of his son on it, and I told him I will wear it with pride.
I was fortunate to have served during peace time, so I just want to say to all of you active duty guys, and those that did serve in the war in Iraq, and Afghanistan. Thank you for your service, and all that you sacrifice. You make us older guys proud. I don't think you guys hear that enough.
I was fortunate to have served during peace time, so I just want to say to all of you active duty guys, and those that did serve in the war in Iraq, and Afghanistan. Thank you for your service, and all that you sacrifice. You make us older guys proud. I don't think you guys hear that enough.