LeRoy Hutchinson 1919-1990

In keeping with this day, which is designated for remembering those who served in our nation’s military, on Saturday I rearranged the mantle in the family room.  There is a triangular box with a folded flag.  The flag remains that way since it was lifted from my father’s coffin, folded and presented to my mother “on behalf of a grateful nation.”  Dad was in the US Army Air Corp during WWII.  To the flag’s left, is a composite photo image of the retirement ceremonies for our son, Scott, who served over 21 years with the US Air Force.  Scott is a veteran of the first gulf war.  The figures of angels are also placed on the mantel.  To the flag’s right is the angel of remembrance.  Between the flag and the photo is the angel of thankfulness.  On the other side of the photo is the angel of prayer.

My paternal grandfather told a tale about an ancestor who was a colonial spy during the American Revolution.  Grandad didn’t know his name, and I have not been able to confirm this story.  This I do know: John Hutchinson (5th great grandfather), left his home in Vermont to fight under General Washington.  He died at Valley Forge.  My maternal grandmother is descended from a soldier who died in the Revolutionary War while defending a fort in New York State (he was from Pennsylvania).

There are others–many of them–who answered the call to arms.  Let us honor those whose sacrifice made the life we know and love possible.  To all veterans, we salute you.