Memories and things I learned from Dad. (#9)
Dad was drafted during the Korean conflict. While training at Fort Jackson, SC, his mom died. Local leaders petitioned for his discharge, and Dad returned home on Christmas morning, 1953.
When I was little, I went with Dad to vote. His polling place was at the local American Legion, and while in line, a legion member distributing VA benefit information asked Dad if he was a veteran. Dad said no, and I wondered why he wasn’t truthful.
Later, Dad explained that he was technically a veteran, but he felt taking advantage of VA benefits would be a slap in the face of those — many were friends — who suffered the atrocities of that war.
Holding to his beliefs, Dad never applied for a VA loan, GI Bill benefits, or VA health benefits.
Find more lessons and memories here.
