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Letters to the Editor Policy
 

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Honoring veterans with pride and gratitude

by Angela and Richard Blinn  ·   Friday, November 8, 2024

In 1952, when my mother, Anna Mason, was about to graduate from high school, she and her family were delivered some harsh news. Her 23-year-old brother, Lawrence DeBenedictis, was badly injured while serving in the Korean War. Remarkably, the very attributes and training that helped him survive the loss of his legs are what helped him build a successful life when he returned home.

But Anna was so angry and hurt by what happened to her brother that she reacted negatively when writing a required school paper about Armistice Day, a day of honor so declared after World War I, referred to as “the war to end all wars.” Sadly, history tells us otherwise. Anna was more hurt than angry. She admired her brother. He was very intelligent, determined, honorable. He never faltered despite some prejudice and disrespect.

Two years later, Armistice Day was amended to Veterans Day, a day to remember and honor all those who have served for our military, to answer the call of duty, to honor and protect the values and principles which America stands for. Always and especially Monday, November 11, I want to share my thanks and gratitude to the men in my family who bear the title veteran: my uncles, Lawrence, Daniel, and Vincent; my dad, John Mason; my nephew, Mark Blinn; and most dearly and with much love, our son, Jonathan M. Blinn. I am humbled by those (and their families) who made the ultimate sacrifice and grateful to God for bringing Jon home from combat: 2003-2007, USMC: 1st Battalion, 6th Marines.

Thank you for serving with fortitude and honor. Thank you to our veterans.

Angela and Rich Blinn
Pinnacle Road

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