The Brown Family had a great honor on the day before Veteran's Day. I was asked to speak the Town of Fuquay Varina's Blue Star Memorial Marker dedication. While, I did the speaking - as a military representative - I made sure that my family was also included in my comments. I know I would not have had the career that I had over the last half of my service if it had not been for Lisa carrying the load back home.
The markers represent the service of men and women in uniform; part, present, and future. However, service is more than just the individual; it includes spouses, children, and parents. The whole military family makes a sacrifice when a loved one is in uniform. That is why I am glad Lisa and Sam were there. More so, Sam was in uniform; one of the few times we will get to be side by side in uniform.
This dedication was a small ceremony - a brief, bright spot in the town's history. However, its history nonetheless. Perhaps someday, years from now, my grandchildren will come to visit Fuquay Varina with their parents. As they drive into town, Sam, or TJ, or Grant will say, "See that marker, Grandpa helped dedicate that marker. Grandma was there too." The truth is that I like speaking in public. I like speaking and saying things that audience wants to hear. It gives me a little rush and I tend to glow in the accolades (I might as well own this truth). In this case, I referenced the topics of service, nation, family, and community - especially the community of Fuquay Varina.
And I still look good in my uniform!
