Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering the people who died while serving in the country’s armed forces. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. While Veteran’s Day celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans, there can never be too many opportunities to say “Thank You” to all those past and present who have served our country.
In a personal way, I want to pay tribute to a grand uncle who died while serving our country. His name was Carleton H. Hibbard and he was my Nana’s (grandmother’s) youngest brother. He was only 25 when his plane collided at Randolph Field ending his life. Second Lieutenant Hibbard was an instructor at the field.
I did not know this story until just a few days ago. I found an old framed photograph of a young gentleman. Curious as to who it might be I decided to open the frame and see if there was anything written on the back of the photo. While I was upset that the little tab on the old fragile frame broke off, I was surprised to discover a newspaper clipping inside. The date was December 3, 1941 – just 4 days before the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II.
Reading the newspaper article (see my image above) prompted me to reach out to my mother with questions. She proceeded to tell me that she had a cedar trunk that Carleton made and it was given to her by my great Aunt Marion. She also said that she has a bunch of his letters that were sent during his pilot training to his mother. My mom said, “maybe you would like the trunk sometime”. I responded back, “Yes! I love family history and want to hear stories and learn as much as I can.”
Believe it or not, your parents and your grandparents love to tell stories and share history. I would encourage each and every one of you to reach out to your oldest living relatives and talk to them, take notes, or, better yet, videotape a conversation. Do it, before it’s too late. And, today, reach out to someone, family member or friend, who has served in our country’s armed forces and wish them a happy Memorial Day.
In honor,
Amy