Another September Saturday, another Navy football game! Despite careless offensive play by Navy, the Midshipmen managed a win - this time by only one point - over UMASS.
It was an emotional game to watch - the highs and lows, the fumbles and the recoveries, the touchdowns and the missed field goals. More than that, it was emotional when, at halftime, the incredible UMASS marching band played only a small portion of their halftime show. They assembled on the home side of the stadium and expressed their appreciation to the Naval Academy and to the service of the midshipmen and alumni. They then played a beautiful rendition of Lee Greenwood's "I'm Proud to be an American". While I can't say whether or not there was a dry eye left in the stadium, I know there wasn't one in my immediate area.
Following that, area representatives for Wheels for Warriors donated a brand new van that had been modified to support the needs of a young Marine who became a quadriplegic in Iraq. The standing ovation was long and the applause thunderous. Here was a crowd who truly empathized with, and appreciated this young man and his family. There was a lump in my throat and an ache in my heart for the sacrifices made by him and by so many others.
I'm always grateful that my children see and hear these heartfelt gestures of appreciation. We talked on the way home about the fact that their Dad's being in the service is a family affair, and how he couldn't do what he does without the support and contribution of each of us. The moves, the deployments and the long hours over the years have been only a small part of what has made up our experience in the Navy, and have been overshadowed by the relationships, the achievements and the pride we've all felt in what he does - but it always feels good to have it recognized and appreciated.
Comments