Remembering Veterans Day / Armistice Day
Nov 10, 2016 20:20:48 #
When we were in Colorado many years ago there were times I worked with a fellow who had been in World War 1. He had survived miserable conditions, harsh weather, mustard gas, strange rations (like monkey meat--chewy), and had many interesting stories to tell. He could speak fluent English, French, and Spanish and so was able to understand what was going on in French hospitals, read foreign labels on cans of food, etc.
One thing he held great reverence and respect for was the memory of the Armistice agreement, or Armistice of Compiègne after the location in which it was signed, to go into effect at 11:00 a.m. Paris time on November 11th, 1918 -- the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month -- to finally bring that horrible war to an end. Those "triple elevens" held a special meaning for him that still showed in his face when he spoke of them a half century later.
He stopped by when he retired and said he'd be long gone when I retired but to "be sure to remember old Pete" when I did ... Forgetting just isn't possible.
One thing he held great reverence and respect for was the memory of the Armistice agreement, or Armistice of Compiègne after the location in which it was signed, to go into effect at 11:00 a.m. Paris time on November 11th, 1918 -- the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month -- to finally bring that horrible war to an end. Those "triple elevens" held a special meaning for him that still showed in his face when he spoke of them a half century later.
He stopped by when he retired and said he'd be long gone when I retired but to "be sure to remember old Pete" when I did ... Forgetting just isn't possible.
Nov 10, 2016 20:28:28 #
Nice photo! Very nice story!! I'm sure he would be grateful you did indeed remember him.
Nov 10, 2016 20:56:55 #
Very nice story, how cool to have a good friend to share those stories. Easy to see why you will always remember him.
Your photo is great.
Your photo is great.
Nov 10, 2016 21:08:06 #
Nov 10, 2016 21:30:23 #
Nov 10, 2016 21:52:57 #
Nov 11, 2016 04:35:02 #
Nov 11, 2016 06:46:03 #
mas24
Loc: Southern CA
World War 1 actually began in 1914. America did not enter until 1917, to help end it sooner. The British and French soldiers suffered the most. It was suppose to be the War to end all Wars? So the thought was during that time. That's a great remembrance photo you posted.
Nov 11, 2016 08:01:54 #
Great story and photo. I love the selective color. The 28-105 is a great lens an is on my camera 90% of the time.
Nov 11, 2016 08:02:13 #
Thank you for sharing this story. I hope everyone takes time to honor all our service men and women. I put my flag out first thing this morning.
dar_clicks wrote:
When we were in Colorado many years ago there were... (show quote)
Nov 11, 2016 08:11:32 #
Nicely written tribute, excellent photo with such meaningful special effect; the duration of the nation through time...
Nov 11, 2016 08:18:04 #
Beautiful photo and Yes, we should never forget the sacrifices those who serve and have served have done for the rest of us. I'm so glad we have a Veterans Day...they deserve it.
Nov 11, 2016 08:32:37 #
Bernie O'
Loc: Bristol, CT
Great story here. We learn so much from these brave men and women who gave so much. Thank you for sharing.
Bernie O'
Bernie O'
Nov 11, 2016 08:54:15 #
dar_clicks wrote:
When we were in Colorado many years ago there were... (show quote)
A nice story, a pity he "was long gone".
Nov 11, 2016 09:17:58 #
Cape Codder
Loc: Cape Cod
Your photo is a lovely tribute to Pete. May he and all veterans rest in piece! And may we all honor the living vets.
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