This post is for my great-grandfather, Alexander Levette. He was born May 16, 1903 and died November 14, 1972. In 1938 he enlisted in the United States Army, and soon fought in World War II and became a prisoner of war. My great-grandmother had four children at the time, but went to work to support the family. She didn't know if he was dead or alive, when one day, she received a phone call where he simply said, "I'm alive," and the phone went dead.
"Pop" died when I was only 6 months old. I have always regretted that I didn't get to know him. I remember standing in my great-grandmother's house, looking up at all the medals, awards and photos that lined the walls, thinking about him. He was remembered so well by his wife and children. The stories about him were tender and precious. I loved him even thought I didn't know him-so much so that I gave my youngest son his name. My great-grandmother lived long enough to know that Zane was Zane Alexander, and I'm thankful for that.
As I reflect on how much freedom has cost so many families since our country was founded, it seems overwhelming. And I want to teach my children that the men and women who have lost their lives didn't do so so that we may pursue the American dream, but did so that we may worship our God freely and openly and proclaim the Gospel both here and abroad.
I also thank God for the women who He has brought into my life that showed me just how much it costs a family to have a father (or a mother) who is in the military. Few of us can understand what exactly they give on a daily basis. It leads me to pray for all the military families both in our country and those who are serving in other countries.
It's a lot to think about and pray over today, but it's worth it. And quite honestly, it's the least I can do as I enjoy the freedoms they worked, and continue to work, so hard to ensure.
"Pop" died when I was only 6 months old. I have always regretted that I didn't get to know him. I remember standing in my great-grandmother's house, looking up at all the medals, awards and photos that lined the walls, thinking about him. He was remembered so well by his wife and children. The stories about him were tender and precious. I loved him even thought I didn't know him-so much so that I gave my youngest son his name. My great-grandmother lived long enough to know that Zane was Zane Alexander, and I'm thankful for that.
As I reflect on how much freedom has cost so many families since our country was founded, it seems overwhelming. And I want to teach my children that the men and women who have lost their lives didn't do so so that we may pursue the American dream, but did so that we may worship our God freely and openly and proclaim the Gospel both here and abroad.
I also thank God for the women who He has brought into my life that showed me just how much it costs a family to have a father (or a mother) who is in the military. Few of us can understand what exactly they give on a daily basis. It leads me to pray for all the military families both in our country and those who are serving in other countries.
It's a lot to think about and pray over today, but it's worth it. And quite honestly, it's the least I can do as I enjoy the freedoms they worked, and continue to work, so hard to ensure.
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