On Memorial Day, I always think of my father, Jim Herbert — and my uncles and my husband’s uncles, all of whom served bravely during WWII. Here are some reflections:
Fortunately my father and our uncles all came home, but of course, there were hundreds of thousands who didn’t, and there are hundreds of thousands who are still serving, still getting horribly wounded, still dying. They deserve our respect and our undying gratitude, regardless of how we feel about the war in which they served.
Thank you for your service: A Moment of Truth
Remember, especially today, all those who serve—or have served—in the Armed Forces. We must never forget their service and we must continue to work and pray for a world in which war is unthinkable and unnecessary.
Prayers for peace
from The Book of Common Prayer
For Peace
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn
but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the
strength of love: So mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that
all peoples may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of
Peace, as children of one Father; to whom be dominion and
glory, now and for ever. Amen.
For Peace Among the Nations
Almighty God our heavenly Father, guide the nations of the
world into the way of justice and truth, and establish among
them that peace which is the fruit of righteousness, that they
may become the kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Amen.
For our Enemies
O God, the Father of all, whose Son commanded us to love
our enemies: Lead them and us from prejudice to truth:
deliver them and us from hatred, cruelty, and revenge; and in
your good time enable us all to stand reconciled before you,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Who are you remembering today?
When you know someone who has served in the Armed Forces, it is much easier to remember and give thanks for their service. But even if you don’t, I hope this post is a reminder that each one is a real person, much loved by many.
My Dad: James H. Herbert (1918-2013)
September 11, 1944
Escorted Bombers to Leipzig targets far beyond normal fighter escort range. Instead of returning to Britain, the mission continued on to land at Piryatin, Russia. Home via Italy. Second of only three such Russian missions. American flag armbands were issued so Russians would not mistake downed American pilots for Germans.
Osh Kosh, Wisconsin – World’s Largest Air Show. Dad is pictured in front of North American P-51 D Mustang such as the one he flew in WWII
Photo by Bruce T. Herbert, my brother
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