11/10/09

A Veteran's Day Tribute to my Dad


Today we honor those who have served our country and put their very lives on the line to keep us free and oft times to preserve or fight for the freedom of others.  Every Veteran is a hero.  But my favorite Veteran is my Father-in-law.


My father in law is a quite man who has led a life of service as a soldier, father, grandfather, and now as a missionary.  My Father-in-law was an officer in the Army Special Forces... a Green Beret.  Dad served in Viet Nam and put his skill to use not only fighting but serving the people who he was fighting to protect.  He is a warrior for what is right no matter where he is... no matter who he's with.


Dad received a Purple Heart for saving his men at great cost to himself under enemy fire.  He was severely wounded and to this day has no feeling in parts of his hand and the scars to prove it... but he doesn't.  Dad is quiet and modest and has spent his life humbly serving God and his country.


He continues that service, only in Africa.  He's been serving the people of Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Sudan for 2.5 years with his dear wife.  We miss him terribly but are honored to call him Dad and Grandpa for the example he sets for our children.  Our lives are blessed because he has always put Faith, Family, and Freedom first.


This Veteran will never ask for a word of thanks nor ever call attention to himself.  He presides over our family and has set a standard for all 7 of his children and 19 of his grandchildren.  His greatest honor will be to see his children serve their God, Country and Families and live lives of service to their fellow man.


Happy Veteran's Day Dad.  We love you, we're thankful for your sacrifice and example and know the world is better because of you and people like you who defended the freedoms we enjoy.

11 comments:

Myrnie said...

What a beautiful tribute to your Dad. (2.5 years? Did they extend??) Happy Veterans day!!

elise said...

A hero. Ordinary men and women who do extraordinary works for many they'll never meet. I thank you for this exquisite story of love and sacrafice. It was so touching I posted the photograph on my blog. Your love for your family touched me deeply. Thank You.
Elise

Simply LKJ said...

What a loving tribute! We often go about our daily lives unaware of the "silent" heros who touch so many each and every day with their service to others.

Pam said...

What a beautiful tribute! I'm sure it's such a blessing to have that as your husband's and children's heritage. Men like your dad are the true heros in life.

Hopeful Housewife said...

Thanks for the service of your dad and your family!

♥ JLB said...

I'm kinda confused, your dad is Joseph Ambrose (top picture)?!

Chelle said...

Loved your post! What a neat man and great example for his family. My Aunt and Uncle are also serving in the Rwanda, Uganda, Ethiopia area.. I wonder if they serve together? Their names are Lou and Jeri Rothey. Would be interesting to see if they know each other!!

Lisa said...

Please extend a heartful thank you to your Dad for his service. Too often these unsung heroes do not receive the ongoing recognition they deserve!

Carrie said...

Oh, that's so sweet! What a great testimony he has.

Thanks for sharing!

Thoughtfully Blended Hearts said...

Your Dad is certainly an extraordinary person...what a hero!!! Please thank him for my family here in Tennessee. It is so true that we hardly ever hear about the good people and I'm so happy to have met such a wonderful man and his family.

Katie said...

That is beautiful..I love this it made me cry. What a crown he will have in heaven someday. God Bless him.

 
entering http://rpc.technorati.com/rpc/ping