To my own, very special and beloved Veteran

Actually, I have two - my husband and my Father.

But for today's Veterans' Day, I would like to honor my Father in particular. Daddy turned 90 last May, and I was just down visiting with them at the end of October. In May, Daddy was getting a little confused, and he couldn't remember a few people, but otherwise was doing pretty well. When I saw him last month, he was far more frail, and still more fragile mentally.

I honestly don't know whether this will be his last Veterans' Day and Thanksgiving with us... And although I'm 45, I'm finding out that, "once a Daddy's girl, always a Daddy's girl." I am going to miss him so very much when God calls him Home!

So, in honor of his service in World War II, I want to wish Daddy a Happy Veterans' Day.

I want to say thank you to all the men and women who have stepped up through the years to serve our country, and sometimes give that last, full measure of devotion. Thank you for protecting us. Thank you for defending freedom. Thank you for standing guard in peace and in war. Thank you for your honor, courage and commitment to your god, your family, and your country.

Thank you, Daddy, for standing The Watch.

For many years this man stood the Watch....

While some of us lay about our bunks at night this Sailor stood the Watch.

While others of us were attending schools, this Sailor stood the Watch.

And yes, even before many of us were born, this Sailor stood the Watch.

As our families watched the storm clouds of war, brewing on the horizons of history, He stood the Watch.

This Sailor looked ashore and saw his family often needing his guidance but he knew he must stay because he had the Watch.

For many years he has stood the watch so that we and our fellow countrymen could sleep soundly in safety knowing that a Sailor would stand the Watch.

Today we are here to say the Watch stands relieved. Relieved by those you led, guided and trained.

You stand relieved, we have the Watch.

Boatswain stand by to pipe to the side, shipmate going ashore.

"Fair Winds and Following Seas"

God bless, Daddy. Thank you.