November 11 is Veterans Day and I wish to recognize this day which is set aside to honor the great men & women in our military who have protected our freedom.
When I was growing up I heard many stories from my grandfather (PaPa), who had served in the military. He had many colorful tales to tell and he shared them with pride that was naturally transferred to me. One great story my sister recalls is PaPa was on a ship in the Pacific on his 32nd birthday - August 14, 1945, the day Japan surrendered to the U.S. (V-J Day), thereby ending World War II. He thought that was the greatest birthday gift ever!
It is an honor to have as my radio show guest, Horace (Harry) Lukens, III, a military veteran. Harry has shared many stories with me as well & these nuggets are genuinely delightful and I'm happy to share them with you. Harry served in the U.S. Army, eventually serving as a command pilot in the 7th Army at Stuttgart, Germany, and subsequently promoted to Commanding General, 7th Army, Europe and eventually Captain.
Harry told me "what a great privilege it is for those of us who have served in the military. It made us better persons and better citizens. However, we need to pay more attention to our veterans, especially those returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Lately they seem to be forgotten in our fast-moving and culturally diverse country."
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/recipe-records-cookbook/2012/11/11/god-bless-the-usa
On a musical note, I thought it might be interesting to share a little information on the popular musicians who served in the military. I think pretty much everyone knows that Elvis served in the Army. He spent two years there, declining any special treatment during his duty and described as fitting in as one of the guys. He reportedly cared genuinely for his fellow soldiers which would not surprise anyone who is an Elvis fan.
Johnny Cash enlisted in the Air Force during the Korean War. He reportedly found his first guitar during his tour of duty in Germany.
Jimi Hendrix served in the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, not far from Evansville, Indiana. Reports say that Jimi was not a prime candidate for the military (he chose to join the military instead of going to the big house for "riding in stolen cars") and was eventually discharged. During his service in the division he spent most of his time playing his guitar....
Take a moment to thank the soldiers.
Peace & Rock & Roll,
Lanea Stagg
Recipe Records Cookbook
reciperecordsml@aol.com
Recipe Records the 60's Edition --- will arrive Nov. 20th! Presale copies are still on sale for $20 (orig.$25) - go to www.reciperecords.webs.com
Recipe Records - Food for Thought, Food for the Soul, Food for the Love of Rock & Roll!
