Gramps

Today is September 28, 2013.

In 1787 the newly completed US Constitution was voted on by the US Congress to be sent to the state legislatures for approval.

In 1867 Toronto became the capital of Ontario.

In 1892 the first night game for American football took place.

In 1924 the first round the world flight was completed.

In 1919 my hero was born.

My Grandpa Pete.

Halloween 2006

There are so many amazing stories and memories that all of our family has of him.
His stories about Missouri. His passion for baseball. His quite laugh that he hid with his finger. His delight in discovering what any construction site was working on. His love/hate relationship with animals. His zeal for vegetable gardens. This list could go on and on and on. There are times where I really do want to jot them all down. Oh the stories that come to mind.

There are so many things that remind me of him everyday. This man that was there for my brothers, sister and I when our father was not. This man that was there for so many. So strong in his silent ways.

I read this poem about three months ago. It hit me so hard I had to write it down. Gramps served in the US Navy. He never boasted about his time, never talked too much about it. His 21 gun salute sounded off in Oregon.

"Final Inspection"
By, Sgt Joshua Helterbran

The soldier stood and faced God,
Which must always come to pass,
He hoped his shoes were shining,
Just as brightly as his brass.

"Step forward now, you soldier,
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To My Church have you been true?"

The soldier squared his shoulders and 
said, "No, Lord, I guess I ain't,
Because those of us who carry guns,
Can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays,
And at times my talk was tough,
And sometimes I've been violent,
Because the world is awfully rough.

But, I never took a penny 
that wasn't mine to keep...
Though I worked a lot of overtime
When the bills got just too steep,

And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear,
And sometimes, God forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place
Among the people here,
They never wanted me around,
Except to calm their fears.

If you've a place for me here, Lord,
It needn't be so grand,
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't, I'll understand."

There was a silence all around the throne,
Where the saints had often trod,
As the soldier waited quietly,
For the judgement of his God.

"Step forward now, you soldier.
You've borne your burdens well,
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in Hell."


Gramps, we know you have your place in heaven. Happy birthday!