I recently visited our nation’s capitol, with a large group of people from Santa Clarita. Prior to meeting with congressional staff, we were able to have a day to do some sight seeing. I have never been to Washington, D.C., and was impressed, when I saw with my own eyes the various memorials, the Capitol and the Supreme Court. I didn’t get a chance to walk by the White House- maybe next time.

During our tour, we walked over to several of the War memorials. After reading some of the quotes at the World War II memorial, I observed a veteran in a wheelchair, surrounded by loved ones. At this time, I began to wonder what he was thinking, which then got me thinking about several veterans in my family.

My grandfather Samuel Mendoza (who lived in the Santa Clarita Valley, during the 1940s and 1950s) served in World War II. Unfortunately, he passed away when I was only three years old. I asked my Mother, if he ever spoke about the war. She replied that she could not recall a specific conversation with him.

My wife’s grandfather Jack Stephenson also served in World War II and he stormed the beaches on D-day. During the several years that I knew him he never spoke about his experiences in the war, instead he attempted to teach me without success, how to eat spaghetti and meatballs, in which you wrap the pasta around the meatball, he learned this well while he was stationed in Italy.

My Uncle Mike Upton served in the Vietnam War, During my entire life, he has never spoken about the war. However, if you look in the den of his house, you will see that he pays homage to those he served with.

What am I getting at? I don’t want to say that I found respect for veterans, because I already have the highest admiration for those who served and to Quote President Lincoln for those who “gave the last full measure of devotion.” I experienced a deeper feeling for all those who have served in our military. I cannot begin to understand the experiences they must have lived through or the horrors of war that they witnessed. I can only thank them for answering our nation’s call.

I was also deeply moved by the following quotes, which were inscribed in the World War II memorial:

“Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.”

President Harry S. Truman

“They fought together as brothers-in-arms. They died together and now they sleep side by side. To them we have a solemn obligation.”

Admiral Chester A. Nimitz.

It doesn’t seem possible, but come March 2007, the military will have been in Iraq for four years. In addition to The Signal, I read another newspaper, which publishes a list of soldiers who lost their lives in Iraq. After reading their names and their obituaries, I say a special prayer for them and their loved ones.

Based upon my experience in Washington, D.C., I can honestly say that Memorial Day and Veterans Day will take on a new meaning for me. It will no longer be about a three-day weekend or an excuse to barbeque, but instead I will reflect on our nation’s military and the sacrifices they made on our behalf with a newfound feeling that words alone cannot express.

Michael Cruz
Santa Clarita