My Dad, My Hero

I know that it is "Mother's Day" weekend, but with all of the talk about Military appreciation this month I have been thinking a lot about my dad. My dad is retired Army and I am, and always have been, proud to say that he served in Vietnam. Regardless of how anybody feels about it, he did what his country asked him to do, and I have nothing but respect for him. I have also been thinking a lot about Connie and her husband Josh, and their little girl. I just want to say that when that girl gets older she will be so proud of her parents for the sacrifices they have made.
In 1997 I had the opportunity to visit Washington, D.C. When I went to the wall it made such an impact on me, I couldn't stop crying. I think that is the moment in time that I saw my dad as more than just my father, that was the day I saw my father as a man, and as a hero. That night when I got back to my hotel I knew I had to do something to pay tribute to my dad, so I sat down and wrote him this poem. Now I would like to share it with all of you to show my appreciation to those of you who are serving, or have served, our country; as well as everyone who does their part here at home to support them.
My writing books are all in storage, so I had to do this from memory, hope I got it all.



My Dad, My Hero

I can't say I understand what you went through over there
but after today I have a better idea
when I looked at the names on that beautiful wall
it didn't take long for the teardrops to fall
they taught us in school about Vietnam
they told us many were killed
but to read the names row by row
makes it all much more real
standing there something touched me deep in my soul
I couldn't explain it, but now I know
I saw children of soldiers copying names
and suddenly realized I wasn't the same
we were fortunate because you came home
a lot of their fathers were never known
now as I think back on all I've done wrong
I realize I've taken you for granted for far too long
now I want to tell you what I've always known
but couldn't see
Daddy, you always have been and always will be
a hero to me