Of Memorials, Sacrifices and Gratitude

By Colleen Gundlach

The summer holidays of Memorial Day and Independence Day always bring out the patriotism inherent in most Americans. At this time of year, my father often reminisces about his military service during World War II. He is now 83 years old, but recalls like yesterday the time he spent as Motor Machinist Mate (MOMM3C) Warren Sullivan of the U.S. Navy, aboard LCT-1205 patrolling the Pacific theater. Like many veterans, he seldom speaks of the horrors he undoubtedly saw, but is justifiably proud of his service to the Navy and his country. We, his children, are equally proud of him. We the citizens of the United States are proud of our service men and women of all branches, all times, and all wars. No matter how we feel as individuals about one war or the next, once we as a world power have committed to a conflict, our fighting forces deserve the utmost respect and support. It is fitting that the summer holidays honor these dedicated and brave people. At Norfolk Now, we want to take time to spotlight our own local heroes. On Memorial Day, while the names of Norfolkians who gave their lives for our country are read, veterans of all wars stand in tribute to those who gave their all. Carol Stein’s photo of three generations of Norfolk Veterans on page 15  of this issue captures the admiration of the townspeople for the fallen one. On a lighter note, we welcome home Army SPC Stephen Whalen, son of  Bill Whalen and Theresa Whalen, who recently returned to Norfolk after a tour of duty in Iraq. Lindsey Pizzica Rotolo’s front-page interview with SPC Whalen highlights some of the sacrifices made by him and his fellow soldiers. He is one of many Norfolk and area service people who have given years from their youth to serve our country in foreign lands and in the homeland. We may never know exactly what each has been through, and if we knew, we may not ever understand without having been there. George Packer, staff writer for “The New Yorker” writes in his book “The Assassins’ Gate – America in Iraq” that “Since America’s fate is now tied to Iraq’s, it might be years or even decades before the wisdom of the war can finally be judged. When Mao’s number two, Chou En-lai, was asked in 1972 what he thought had been the impact of the French revolution, he replied, ‘It’s too early to tell.’” The same could be said of World War II, Korea, Viet Nam, and the Gulf Wars. History takes its time in determining the wisdom or folly of humans. But one thing we can be sure of is that Americans are thankful for the millions of soldiers, sailors and Marines who have been in active duty, here and abroad, from the Revolutionary War through Iraq. These are the people who allow us to continue to live as “one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” Call a Norfolk serviceperson, active or retired, today, and extend your thanks for all he or she has done.