My husband and I took photos of every Veteran’s stone whom we placed wreaths for on Wreaths Across America Day at Arlington National Cemetery. When we returned home, Mister Rain began researching each serviceperson using GOG (good ole Google), Ancestry.com as well as newspapers.com. He was able to find obituaries, pictures and in one case, a Wikipedia page for the military personnel. I already felt a connection to those we had the privilege of honoring, but now we had information about their lives and their deaths. To see a photo was such an extra gift.
MARION PATRICIA SCISM
Ms. Scism enlisted in the Wamen’s Army Air Force in 1942. She served in Europe and aboard a hospital ship carrying wounded home during World War II. She also served in the Korean War. She received her honorable discharge in 1965 after 23 years in the service. Originally from New York, she passed away at the age of 66 at Keesler Air Force Base Hospital, Biloxi, Mississippi.
PAUL WILSON UMSTOTT
Mr. Umstott was a World War II Army Veteran and Prisoner of War, detained in Germany. A West Virginia University graduate, he became a payroll systems manager for the United States Postal Service He died of Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 85.
RUFUS Z JOHNSTON
Born in North Carolina, Rear Admiral Johnston graduated from the United States Naval Academy. He received the Medal of Honor for actions at the United States occupation of Veracruz. He is also a recipient of the Navy Cross and served in the Battle of Santiago de Cuba, Boxer Rebellion, Philippine-American War and World War I. He died at the age of 85 in Rhode Island.
I think we see the uniform and we respect it, we appreciate it, but inside those dress blues and camouflage is a person. Investigating their stories brought them to life. Laying a wreath at a Veteran’s grave is a privilege. Learning about them is another tribute to their memory.
Please visit Wreaths Across America for more information on how you can join the mission. As you honor and remember those who have sacrificed, who gave their lives, yours will be changed forever.
Come back next Monday for Wreaths Across America – The Essay.
Previously published:
Wreaths Across America – The Day
#sisterrain #alittlesightalotofheart #legallyblindwriter #ushistory #arlingtonnationalcemetery #wreathsacrossamerica #wreathsacrossamericatheperson
