Veterans day

Carol and I once more made the short journey to the Mather Field VA hospital which is just across US50 from our home. At this VA hospital they conducted the 7th annual Veterans day celebration. We were both so thankful to be able to attend this wonderful event. Last year when we went to this event, there was a storm that came through. None the less with tents with covers on three sides of each tent, the event went on. This year, the weather was beautiful. Frankly, it was a glorious day. There were veterans there that served as far back as World War II. Every branch of the military was represented at this event. The sad part of the event that there wasn't a better turn out of 'non-veterans'. Carol and I found this sad. None the less, we were so proud that we were able to attend this event

There was a fly over of C-130 at the beginning of the event. All through the event, the 59th Army band performed a wonderful number of arrangements.

There was a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem was sung by a trio of young ladies from the Cordova High School Choir.

There was a  speech given by Daryl Steinberg the President protem of the California State Senate.

Also, the mayor of Rancho Cordova gave a wonderful speech.

The keynote speech was given by a Jonathan Cullifer, a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and a recipient of the Purple heart. Jonathan talked about his service in both the Marine corps and the US Army. He also spoke of his battles with PTSD and how the fine staff at the VA hospital  helped to talk him back from 'The edge' of taking his own life. We are so glad we had the opportunity to hear him speak about the challenges he has faced and it was clear about the bravery he has faced his challenges with.

Carol and I celebrate our veterans and current service personel everyday of our lives, but it is events like this where we really realize just how lucky we are to live in this great nation, and just how thankful we are to have the brave men and women that serve in our US Armed forces.

As you can see, our dogs are proud and thankful too!

Happy Camping! Eric and Carol Anderson