On Memorial Day, Remembering All Who Served

A son recalls his father's service and the sacrifice of those who fought alongside him.

Mark Collins' father, William, in 1942

In our dining room, I have a photo of my father, circa 1942. He's in his Navy uniform, looking all of 20. He's not wearing his glasses; the Navy would have suspected that perhaps my dad faked his way through their vision test by memorizing the eye exam forward and backward, and that would have been wrong, of course. 

I have seen that photo of my father about a thousand times, most recently in newspapers and on television. Sometimes my father is a soldier from Kentucky, killed in Iraq; other times he's an African American from Arkansas, missing in action. Sometimes the photo is of a young woman in the Air National Guard killed in a training mission, but it's still my father. It's still some 20-year-old from somewhere nearby, someone with promise and a family and a nice smile—a smile you can only see in photographs hanging on the wall like icons. 

I'm happy to report that my father is alive and well this Memorial Day. He emerged from World War II uninjured, but I cannot say unhurt—memories remain of those who didn't come back. 

It reminds me of a cliché we use at funerals: “paying our respects” to the deceased. Abraham Lincoln was right: No words can add to or detract from their sacrifice. We really go to funerals to grieve with the walking wounded—those left behind. Those who fell have already made it home. Not in a box, not in a picture frame, but really themselves. Alive. At home. At peace.

Share this story

God’s Constant Presence

Explore 40 never-published true stories of everyday miracles. Wondering if God is by your side? Find assurance in these tales of guidance and protection.

Plus 4 FREE GIFTS – Get 3 FREE Booklets and a FREE tote with any hardover or series purchase

These incredible stories will open your eyes and heart to the miracles in your own life.

  • Witness lifesaving angels with perfect timing…
  • Hear the Lord’s voice in stories of miraculous survival…
  • See the hand of God at work during tragic accidents…
  • Read stories that prove God really does have a plan for you…
Read More and Order
Faith Over Fear Right Rail Ad 300x600

Community Newsletter

Get More Inspiration Delivered to Your Inbox

Scroll to Top