I'm Finally Reading a Book

And I am almost finished. I know that for those of you that know me this is a shock as you probably thought that I couldn't read. Ever since I was made to read as a little kid I have not enjoyed reading as I should. I have tried all kinds of books too. But finally, I found one that I cannot put down. "Flag's of Our Fathers". And since it is Memorial Day weekend I thought it fitting to share a few thoughts with you all on this book and those that have gone before us to keep our freedom, and other's freedom intact.

It is amazing to read the history of the six flagraisers on Iwo Jima. Where they came from and how they fit into their families. Probably the most impressionable fact of the book is that every one of those boys had an extremely strong and loving mother. The book talks about the America that they grew up in. It made me long for such days. Times seemed so simple in 1930's America. America still had a youthful innocence about it. It was interesting to contrast that America and the one we live in today. It seems that everyone is looking out only for themselves compared to those who lived in WWII America. Many Americans sacrificed greatly to support their country and the war effort.

The book is quite graphic as to the battle for Iwo Jima and what happened to some of the boys. And yes, most were boys. 18 and 19 years old and some as young as 15. They obviously lied about their age. The Japanese played by no rules and were ruthless to our marines. I will not write what they did here as it really is too graphic.

I now have a new and deeper respect for those serving in the armed forces and for what they have to go through to keep the greatest country in the world, safe. May the Lord bless our our great nation and may we pray for our leaders and military. Pray that we will continue to serve the Lord and that our country will be strong in these trying times.