America's Greatest Generation

An era that has been said to be the most terrifying and turbulent in our nation's history, an era of men who served their country by fighting in and winning the battles of World War II, and of women and men who helped America finance the war with their home front efforts, these are the men and women who are now referred to as 'America's Greatest Generation'.  My grandpa, Alex Rodriguez, was one of the men who served in our nation's military during this time.  He served in the United States Army and lead a group of solders in the Philippines as a Staff Sergeant.  He served proudly.  He was a man that took Duty, Honor and Country to heart.  And up until his last days, he participated in every local WWII event.  He rode in parades, waving his flag proudly, as the crowds honored him and the other veterans.  But he was humble and never boasted about his medals.  Grandpa could usually be found at one VFW or another.  He was selected through a veteran's program to be taken to see the WWII Memorial in Washington DC.  Sadly, he will not make his flight, missing it only by three weeks.  My grandpa passed away on October 14th.  He was a great man.  He was loved by so many people.  And I am proud to say that I am a Rodriguez and that my oldest daughter is named after her great grandpa. 

Alex Rodgriguez, my grandpa, front and center holding the flag.

 

In honor of Grandpa, Post 76 conducted a 21-gun salute and flew the flag at half mast.

  

 

I am fascinated with this generation of great men and women - their dedication and patriotism helped shape our nation.  Veteran's Day is right around the corner.  Don't let this day pass without thanking someone from our Greatest Generation.  I wish I would have called my grandpa every Veteran's Day.