By Edward E. Doughty

As Memorial Day approaches, I am reminded of an event I experienced during my youth while growing up in Augusta, Ga.

Don Buckley was my best friend. Don’s older brother, Lawrence, was a career Army officer who was serving in Korea during that war. As the war came to a conclusion, Lawrence returned home to his family.

As the train approached Union Station in Augusta he was met by a host of friends and wellwishers, including the band from nearby Fort Gordon. When the train stopped and Captain Buckley exited the train, there was cheering such as one has never heard. The band began playing “When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again,” and there wasn’t a dry eye in the depot.

Our hearts were bursting with pride. For his heroism, Captain Buckley was awarded the Silver Star. I shall remember this occasion for the remainder of my days.

And yet there are those who now ask, “Where have all the heroes gone?”

I’ll tell you. They are here and they are numerous.

World War II and Korean and Vietnam War vets are still well represented today. More recently, young men and women have returned from Iraq and Afghanistan even after serving multiple deploymentsto those countries.

And the list of heroes doesn’t stop there. Peace Corps volunteers are still giving of their time and talents to help people in many countries to better help themselves. Missionaries from the United States are scattered throughout the globe spreading the word of Jesus Christ. Doctors Without Borders are ministering to the health needs worldwide. At present volunteers are serving the needs of displaced citizens of Nigeria and South Sudan while at great risk to their lives. Hundreds of volunteers are located in refugee camps throughout Lebanon, Jordan and northern Iraq to assist Syrians who no longer have a place to call home.

On the domestic front, heroes are everywhere. They serve in food kitchens, provide meals and service to the infirm, build Habitat for Humanity homes, serve as Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA), visit the aged in nursing homes and perform a variety of other worthwhile services to their fellow man.

Yes, heroes are all around us. Memorial Day is a good time to reflect not only on the many blessings that we have inherited as Americans, but to acknowledge the contributions so many have made and are making to ensure that this becomes a better world.

 

Edward E. Doughty lives in Salisbury.