Magic Milk Duds for Veteran’s Day

Dear Grandpa,

I wanted to write you a letter to let you know I am thinking of you today.  Usually, when I think of you I remember your big smile, your bear hugs, your magic Milk Duds pills, and your solution to all things, a malted milk with french fries.

Today I can’t help but think of all the things I don’t know about your time serving our country.  I know you didn’t like to talk about it.  I know you preferred it that way, and I completely respect that.  I know I will never truly understand what you experienced in WWII but I wanted to say thank you. The simple fact that you served has taught our family a lot.  It resonates with our respect for service members and in the teary eyes of a well-sung National Anthem.

The mystery of your time in WWII compelled me to visit Normandy, France.  I thought it would bring me closer to understanding your experience. What I realized while visiting Normandy over 20 years ago was the tremendous loss that happens when others stand up to fight for our country.

I stopped and sat for a long time in front of the graves of the soldiers known only to God.  A sea of them,  as far as I could see. All of them loved by someone. These soldiers didn’t get to see their families again.  They didn’t get to give their grandkids “magic Milk Dud pills” when they were feeling down. They didn’t get to blast Lee Greenwood’s “Proud to Be an American” through their house.  They didn’t get long pontoon rides during sunset.

Grandpa, in my eyes, you thoroughly enjoyed the little things in life.  An honest scare to make mom jump. The secret stash of candy we would eat while hiding behind your bed.  The unbelievable stories you would tell me and my brothers before bed. When I think back now, I realize you cherished all the little things and our time together.  Our time was not interrupted by a phone call or a pile of work. It was filled with silliness, stories, conversations, and activities.  

Today I honor you, my friends who serve(d), and all of those known only to God, by following in your footsteps and being grateful for each moment.  Thank you for your amazing example of a life lived with joy and love. Your smile is forever in my heart reminding me that the magic of the Milk Dud was not in the candy itself, but in time spent with you.  

Love you,

Sweet Pea

P.S.  I still have the letter you sent me to camp that you said was from Tom Selleck.  It truly is the little things:)

P.P.S. My dad now does the dance you used to do when we would leave the house.  The tradition lives on….and the dance moves are still very unique:)