November 11, Armistice Day

 

  My grandfather, Edward McNamara from Lexington Massachusetts served with the 101st Regiment (Medical company), 26th Yankee Division in the first world war.  He seldom talked about it, and when he did it was a terrible memory which haunted him.  But  I will always remember his smile when he told me how at 11:00 A.M. on 11th November the guns stopped and he and his friends knew they would live, knew they had survived.  

  And as this date is now called Veterans Day I say thank you to my father in law, Aldrich Stevens  who served in the  3rd Ranger Battalion (Darby's Rangers) in the Second World War.  He joined the Rangers in North Africa, and took part in the invasion of both Sicily and Italy.  He could not take part in the Anzio  landing because of his wounds so missed the Battle of Cisterna.  Like my grandfather he too was haunted by the memories of what he saw, experienced and especialy those he lost.   

  This past year Janine and I had a memorial stone made for each of them to honour their sacrifices.  We have volunteered at the Clear Path for Veterans center on Fort Devens.  This organization helps returning veterans with readjustment back to civilian life.  They provide a helping hand and resources for those who need it.    For more on the incredible work they do please visit their site at:

https://www.clearpath4vets.com