That’s my dad Mike on the left. Uncle George Knezovich center and Uncle Dave Knezovich on the right. Uncle Steve Knezovich, not pictured, served in the Navy.
My earliest recollections of Memorial Day have my father at the barbecue grill, listening to a radio broadcast of the Indianapolis 500. It was a day off work for my mom and dad, a day off school for me an my sister, and an excuse for a cookout. All the neighbors were doing the same in their backyards. Charcoal smoke permeated the block.
As I often do now, I look back and wonder what my parents thought at the time. For them it had been the Depression, the war, and now we’re in the backyard grilling ribs. I can only wonder. Oh, for a Time Machine.
Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day was and is dedicated to those who lost their lives while serving. Veteran’s Day is a tribute to all who served. They’ve sort of melded in our culture. I’m not sure whether that’s a good or bad thing.
We can argue about the morality of the wars our elected leaders have chosen to fight. I don’t think that means there is any ambiguity about those who carried out those missions.
As I’ve written here before, my father and his three brothers all served during WWII. Thankfully, all of them survived the war itself. But they all suffered tolls. And so, here’s to the memories my father, Mike Knezovich, and his brothers George, David, and Steve (not pictured above but fully appreciated).
You come from a very good-looking family, as well as a patriotic one!
My uncle did not serve in WWII (too young), nor did my father (too skinny). But for many years we always hosted one or two enlisted men from the nearby naval base for a meal and family time on Memorial Day. Thanks for sharing your family story, Mike.
Very touching Mike. You captured with simple words what Memorial Day really means. An homage to the common men and women, who made this country.
Hey Mike. What a special message. Love your wish for a Time Machine – that would be amazing. Hello to Beth, too!
Kelly
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