I was dragged off to a performance at the local Performing Arts Center (PAC) Wednesday night. I admit that I wasn't looking forward to a revival of Glen Miller music called "In the Mood". Sounds exciting doesn't it?
The PAC was packed. It was predominently an older crowd but there was an excitement in the air. The audience had many people that had lived through the World War II years (1930's and 1940's). They were eagerly anticipating a "return to yester-year".
As a kid, the songs of the era played like a haunting back drop to the serious nature of the time. Waiting for my Dad to return home while standing on the train station platform is very vivid. In my mind I tie the emotions of the War effort to the songs of the day.
Songs like "Chattanooga Choo Choo" and "Bugle Call Rag" bring back memories. My favorite has always been "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" made famous by the Andrews Sisters. Imagine, an Andrews that could sing! It was the 1940's version of rock n' roll.
The performance ended with a military salute to all people who have served in the different branches of the Service. Veterans from the Navy, Army and Air Force stood up separately for individual recognition. It was amazing how many men stood from the audience With patriotic music playing in the background, you couldn't help but get a little choked up.
So an evening that began with reluctance ended with a passionate tribute to the people who sacrificed to make this country great. It turned out to be a fun night.
The lesson Grasshoppers is "we owe a respect to the people who served and died to make our country great". I personally won't let that respect die. The people who went before us made our quality of life what it is. Don't let sleezy politicians take away your freedoms.
Love,
Dad