It dawned on me soon after the parade in Lynbrook started. I had been running around all morning as my son's Little League team was marching in our local parade. I had to get him to the starting point, drop off the car and get my folding chair to a spot towards the end of the parade route to pick him up. That always becomes the popular and crowded sections as many other parents are doing the same. I got to my favorite area, keenly noticing the people in front of me in their low beach chairs; this was going to be a great viewing spot. All I could think about was where my son would be and if he would see me as well waving in the 2nd row. When the first cars came by, the man in the low chair in front immediately stood up and I at first was annoyed as there goes my view. Then I read the signs hanging on the antique cars and these were the local veterans of WW2 and the other wars that followed. I immediately stood up and applauded too. It was then that I realized why we celebrate and the true meaning of this day. Seeing actual veterans that survived and how proud they were to serve our country. Nothing can compare. A powerful moment for all to take in.

We each remember in our own ways; it was nice weather for parades. Even if you do nothing overtly, something occurs whether on the tube, news, e-media or around you that reminds you.

I posted a video of the Stars & Stripes waving proudly in the wind on Facebook

I spent most of the week and weekend stopping to thank sailors around town for their service.