Veteran's Day and a Tribute to my Favorite Veteran

This is a portrait drawn of my Dad when he was in the Navy. My Dad joined the Navy when he was barely 16 and had to have his parent's signature.  He served on a U.S. Destroyer Escort and was in Nagasaki after the bombing. All of his adult life he was loyal to his country and to the Navy.  He loved the Navy and talked about it often. He was frequently seen wearing his Veteran's hat.  He was proud to have served his country.

My Dad's portrait, done by his friend in the Navy

My Dad passed on November 14, 2001, after the attack on the Twin Towers and right before Thanksgiving. It was the worst day in our family's lives, losing him.  We miss him terribly.  

His father, my grandfather, also served in the military, I believe he served in the Marines.  I have a nephew, and an ex-son-in-law that are military now; both in the Air Force.  I have a son-in-law and a Nephew that are ex-military now but served their time in the Army and the Marines.  My husband and his father both served in the Army. 

May God bless and protect all of our young men and women in the military!
Thank you to all of those serving now and having served in the past to keep us free!

As my friend said on her post:

"Freedom isn't Free"