Veterans Day 2025

We arrived home about 45 minutes ago. I am exhausted, but it was fun. It starts early for some—and for others, it is still going strong at VFW posts, AMVET posts, and American Legions.   

Shasta County loves our Veterans.

"It’s chaos, camaraderie, and cholesterol - just how the Founding Fathers intended."

Just yesterday was the incredible milestone of the Marine Corps' 250th birthday! What an achievement! We used to attend the ball, but honestly, the level of fanciness just isn't my style. I'll only go if my husband is asked to make either a toast representing the Navy or the Coast Guard. (He served in both)

Why do the Marines always carry a map?

So they can avoid the army!

What do you call a Marine with an IQ of 160?

A Platoon!

What do you call a Marine who can't swim?

Infantry.

Why don’t Marines wish they were a part of Army/Navy football games?
Because then who’d keep the Army and Navy’s girlfriends company?

Why do they actually prefer non-swimmers in the Navy?

They defend their ship with a lot more enthusiasm.

What’s a soldier’s favorite type of music? → 

Marching band. 

Why did the boot camp chicken cross the road? → 

To report to the other side. 

Why do soldiers love camping? → 

They’re trained to pitch under pressure.

What is Army an acronym for?
A Recruiter Misled You.

How do you know an Air Force base is nearby?
→ The sky’s cleaner — from all that pride.

How do you know if an Air Force pilot is at your party? 

Don’t worry; they’ll make a “grand entrance” with a sonic boom!

The Coast Guard recently changed their minimum height requirements to 6'.

That way, if the boat sinks, everyone can just walk to shore.

Guys, wanna hear a military joke?

The coast guards

PS. My husband hears this one all the time at the post when he comes in to play pool.

Just some silly jokes I heard at the VFW post!

(the clean ones)

“Heroes Among Us”

Today, we honor veterans, true

Who gave their best for me and you.

You’ll see them walking, laughing, and proud,

Their voices strong, their hearts unbowed.

A shining mix, both young and old,

With stories brave, and spirits bold.

Some with hair and some without,

All heroes still, without a doubt.

Some lean on canes, some roll with grace,

Still strength and honor line each face.

Their hats held high, their flags they wave,

Remind us of their lives they gave.

They gave their youth, their dreams, their years,

Through sweat and sorrow, hope and tears.

For all they’ve done, we proudly say:

Happy Veterans Day, hooray!

 

The weekend and What's Ahead for This Week

 

As the season unfolds, all types of events and happenings are popping up everywhere!  I will have to prioritize the truly special ones.   

What an exciting day yesterday was! Our wonderful Christian community came together to celebrate the upcoming opening of a new Pregnancy Care clinic set for January. Back in March, a call to action was called to many the churches, to raise one million dollars to purchase this building and support operations for the first year. 

Thanks be to God, they were able to purchase the building and the 2 acres with an all-cash purchase. Now that is a God-job and a definite reason to celebrate!

In one special room, inspiration flowed freely as we were invited to unleash our creativity and write on the walls. The space buzzed with energy, encouraging us to leave our mark in vibrant words and thoughts.

The facility is absolutely fantastic! It will feature a spacious boutique filled with free maternity and infant/toddler clothing, equipment, toys, diapers, and more. 

Strolling along the Sacramento River Trail on a warm Fall day is a delightful experience. What a perfect backdrop for a refreshing escape into nature. 

The hills are showing signs of recovery from the 2018 Carr Fire in our town.  It’s good to see nature bounce back - 

I’ve been meaning to fill you in on the latest about my husband’s tooth - 

He visited an endodontist who confirmed that the tooth pulp was not dead. The infection was successfully cleared, and a temporary crown was placed. Now, he awaits the new crown from his primary dentist in December. Best of all, he's pain-free and grateful he went to the VA for antibiotics, which truly aided in his healing. 

On Saturday morning, I woke up at 4:30 am feeling queasy, similar to morning sickness. After vomiting, I felt tired but by the afternoon, the nausea vanished. I woke up on Sunday feeling refreshed and completely better!

How peculiar! 

And to think, this all happened before I set foot in the Pregnancy clinic.

Pretty little mushrooms all around - 

I’ve finished my Christmas shopping and am waiting for deliveries to wrap everything before Thanksgiving. Prices are higher this year. 

We have Thanksgiving all set - it will be at Navy's and his wife's home (6 miles from us), and it will take place on Friday. Sara has been scheduled to work at the hospital on Thanksgiving. She wants me to bring two of my son's favorites - an Asian slaw that my son loves and a zucchini bread. 

I can do that! And I'm doing Christmas at my house. 

Foodie will be celebrating his 45th birthday on the 23rd, and he’s excited for his beloved “Man vs Wild” weekend! He’s set to embark on an adventurous four-day backpacking getaway.  

Once, he had an unforgettable wild trip in the Trinity Alps when an atmospheric river brought flash floods. During that time, he found refuge at a hunter’s camp, where their outdoor canvas canopies kept him dry by a huge campfire. He even enjoyed some good fellowship and delicious venison while waiting out the storm! 

So his adventure wasn't a complete washout!

Not Much!

 Right now, I don't have anything urgent on my calendar.  My husband has a few appointments, and I have BSF this Wednesday. We'll be volunteering in the Children's program, which is always fun. 

Tomorrow is Veterans Day, and my husband is excited for a free meal out! It’s great to see events honoring veterans this week. While we missed the parade at Shasta Lake, we’re looking forward to another ceremony tomorrow at 11am, featuring veteran speakers sharing their stories and live patriotic music. The weather looks good, and we're hoping my veteran son will join us this year. We love celebrating and honoring our veterans. God bless them!

Have a GREAT WEEK AHEAD! 

 

War Pigeons

 

Every Sunday morning, as we pull into the bagel shop on our way to church, a familiar scene unfolds before us - 

The pigeons perched atop the roof coo softly, their melodic sounds filling the air. It almost feels as if they’re perched there, patiently waiting our arrival every Sunday. 

I don't dislike pigeons, as many people do. Their beautiful ombre feathers shimmer in the light, revealing a sweet charm that often goes unnoticed. I always talk to them, coo back to them as I walk into the store.  I used to raise white doves, so I speak their language...Sadly, pigeons are often seen as the ugly duckling compared to their elegant, peace-loving cousin, the dove.

I've always seen them as sweet, gentle creatures

Pigeons, once celebrated for their incredible ability to deliver messages during wartime, are fascinating creatures! Often called "rats with wings," they are highly intelligent animals with impressive problem-solving skills, with one Ohio study in 2023 even likening their capabilities to those of AI! 

As Veterans Day approaches on November 11, I feel compelled to spotlight a truly unsung hero of history: the war pigeon. These remarkable birds played a crucial role in wartime communication, delivering messages across enemy lines and showcasing incredible bravery. 

1. Cher Ami, meaning 'dear friend' in French, was a devoted pigeon who, in 1918, saved nearly 200 American soldiers trapped by enemy troops in France.

2. G.I. Joe, a war pigeon, made a 32-kilometer trip in 20 minutes to inform US Air Command and prevent a tragic bombing, saving up to 1,000 lives, including civilians and British troops. 

3. Mary of Exeter, a messenger pigeon, delivered secret messages between England and France in WW2. 

4. Mocker flew 52 missions in WW1 before he was wounded.

5.  Paddy was a key messenger pigeon in the D-Day operations of June 1944, with an impressive speed of 90 kilometers per hour (56 mph).

6. The war pigeon, Commando, played a vital role in World War II by completing 90 missions and delivering crucial intelligence for the Allies against the Nazis.

7. War Pigeon, President Wilson, served valiantly with the US Army during World War I. He was assigned to the Tank Corps to relay enemy positions, flying through enemy fire. Wilson lost his left leg and was shot in the chest but survived and lived until 1929. 

8. On February 23, 1942, during World War II, a damaged RAF bomber landed in the North Sea after returning from Norway, stranding four crew members. While rescue efforts failed to locate them, a carrier pigeon named Winkie was sent for help. He flew over 200 kilometers to Broughty Ferry, where his owner alerted RAF to pinpoint the bomber's location and rescue the men.

9. William of Orange was a war pigeon who saved over 2,000 lives during World War II. In September 1944, during the Battle of Arnhem, Allied forces faced communication issues as German troops surrounded them. British soldiers released William, who flew over 400 kilometers back to the UK with a crucial message, helping to resolve the crisis. After the war, he was retired by Sir William Smith of Cheshire and became known as the "grandfather of many outstanding pigeons."

Next time you see a pigeon, take a moment to appreciate them. These resilient birds have played important roles in history, often helping humans and saving lives. Let their noble past inspire you to value them today knowing what they are capable of. 

https://historic-times.com/pigeons-war-heroes/

 https://listverse.com/2016/07/05/10-heroic-wartime-pigeons/

Don't say, "Happy Memorial Day."

We don't CELEBRATE Memorial Day

We OBSERVE MEMORIAL DAY

Memorial Day should be approached with the right tone. While some may wish others a "Happy Memorial Day," it's important to remember the solemn nature of this occasion. Would you celebrate the memory of a lost loved one with festivities like hot dog competitions or sales events?

Certainly not—such actions could come across as insensitive. It’s essential to remember the purpose behind Memorial Day and to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice with the respect it deserves.

Don't Wish a Veteran a Happy Memorial Day. 

It’s important to recognize that many veterans may feel uneasy when thanked for their service on Memorial Day. They are aware of the day's deeper significance and the sacrifices made by those whom they may have personally known who lost their lives in service. My dad was right next to a close friend on a battlefield in Korea when his buddy was hit.  While it was always difficult for him to discuss (and he didn't with me until a few months before he died), I know that Memorial Day held significant meaning for him. 

Memorial Day used to be recognized on May 30 as Decoration Day, a time for communities to honor the graves of those who sacrificed their lives for our country. Many of these individuals were young, familiar faces in our neighborhoods, like the paperboy or the gas station attendants. The early 1970s marked a significant turning point. My Dad noted the changing nature of respect and honor, predicting a decline in its reverence. He was insightful in his observations.

As we hurry to a picnic or shopping mall, we often overlook the true meaning of sacrifice, either not understanding it or being too comfortable in our freedoms to make even a small sacrifice ourselves.

Every town and city across America typically hosts a Memorial Day service, honoring those who have sacrificed their lives on the battlefield for our freedom. These ceremonies often include heartfelt speeches, wreath laying, and taps playing, creating a solemn and respectful atmosphere. 

I encourage you to take a moment to look up the schedule for your local service, as participating in this meaningful event can deepen your appreciation for the holiday. Make it a point to stop by and pay your respects, even if it's just for a short time, before heading off to your picnic or other celebrations. It’s a beautiful way to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice and honor their families who also paid the price while bringing a sense of community into your day.

I assure you, this experience will be truly unforgettable, and you'll find yourself eagerly anticipating each Memorial Day that comes.

Here are the Do's and Dont's of Memorial Day

Veterans Day is not the same as Memorial Day.  

Veterans Day is a time when small towns come alive with vibrant parades, filled with the cheerful sounds of marching bands and the proud smiles of veterans in uniform. It’s a day dedicated to gratitude, where communities gather to honor the sacrifices of those who served, reflecting on their heroism and the liberties they have safeguarded.

Home of the FREE because of the BRAVE! 

Armed Forces Day honors those still serving. 

I feel incredibly blessed to be part of a proud lineage of military service, reflected in the dedicated contributions of my son and husband and the countless sacrifices made by my father, uncles, and grandfathers before me. This deep-rooted connection to military heritage fills me with immense pride. My husband and I actively engage in various veteran activities in our community, striving to honor those who have served. I had the honor of serving as the VFW President of the Ladies Auxiliary, where I dedicated my time to supporting our veterans and fostering a sense of camaraderie among their families.

God Bless the USA

and God Bless our Fallen Heroes 

Debby

Honor them before they're gone forver

A Veteran's Day Tribute

If someone has done military service,
They earn the title "veteran," and more;

They earn our deep respect and admiration;
That they are special no one can ignore.

They sacrificed the comforts we enjoy;
The list is long of all the things they gave.

Our veterans are extraordinary people;

They’re loyal, dedicated, true and brave.

We owe our freedoms and our very lives
To our veterans, who served in uniform.

Our veterans should be celebrities;
They’re exceptional; no other group compares.

We’re grateful for the many things they’ve done;
They’re always in our hearts and in our prayers.

We owe our veterans support and friendship;
Let no one ever question what they’re worth.

These men and women served us and our country,
Our veterans--the very best on earth.

By Joanna Fuchs

On Veterans' Day

While we were here at home,
They traveled land and sea,
To make sure we stayed safe,
To protect and keep us free.

Words are not enough
To give them what they're due.
On Veterans' Day, please thank them
For their service, to me and you.

By Joanna Fuchs

*The above Veterans are from the California Veteran Home in Shasta County. 

Every day, memories of World War II are disappearing from living history. The men and women who fought and won this great conflict are now in their 90s or older; according to US Department of Veterans Affairs statistics, 66,143 of the 16.4 million Americans who served in World War II are alive as of 2024.