Life Outside the Cage

My family descends from pioneer stock that settled America and Oklahoma. Relatives were part of the group that founded New York and ancestors participated in the land run. My heritage consists of patriotic people who love our country, appreciate the military, and respect police officers. I grew up with colorful tales of family members who drove buckboard wagons and served in the army. That is why Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day are included in my favorite holidays.

The most distinct recollection consists of my grandfather’s memory of leaving the Port of New York to sail to Europe during WWII. He shared with us his apprehension for leaving behind his wife and small daughter, yet revealing his pride of serving his country. Wayne Pester, Papaw Wayne to me, was stationed in Vienna, Austria, until peace had been established in that region.

I loved the continuing story of how, at the end of his tour, he was once again perched on the deck of a ship as it steered toward the Port of New York. He stated, “All of sudden, there she was.” He called her “his girl.” The Statue of Liberty peered at him, welcoming him home. My grandfather always smiled and said, “It was the prettiest thing I ever saw. It was good to be home.” My thoughts turned to him this past October when I stood against the railing of a cruise ship leaving from the Port of New York. As Lady Liberty came into view I whispered, “There’s our girl.”

My grandfather, Wayne Pester

So, on this Veteran’s Day of 2009, I thank my grandfather for my freedom. I pause to express gratitude to our military men and women for their sacrifice to protect us all. I remember a line from the movie A Few Good Men when a character is asked why she likes the military so much, she replies, “Because they stand on a wall and say, ‘Nothing's going to hurt you tonight, not on my watch.’"

Thank you for standing on the wall.