Veteran?


I never considered my Dad a veteran. He only briefly served in the Navy as an Ensign, and it was after WW2 was over. He was involved in the Japanese occupation, I have a jewelry box and a small set of China he brought back. He never talked much about it, I think he chalked it up as just another experience. I am pretty sure he saw no fighting. See, I don't know much.
But here's a picture my cousin gave me when I was back east for my Aunts memorial. And there, behind him on the mantle, is a picture of my Aunt looking over his shoulder.

The only other veteran in our family I also just found out about on my trip home. My grandfathers Henry's oldest brother Robert was killed in WW1. This would have been my dad's uncle. My cousin found, among my aunts stuff, documentation for my Great grandmother from the government about veterans insurance she got when her son died. This is who my dad was named after, as well as my dads cousin, Bobby Shevett. I never knew this, or if I did, it never sank in.

I also got a great photo of my dad in the Navy band with his cornet in the classic white navy uniform. That musical talent had to come from somewhere...