The Greatest Generation

WWII Memorial, Lincoln Park, MI

This morning I was out and about Downriver, and caught site of a spot that I had passed by thousands of times before, but had never really stopped to take a close look at. 

Erected in 1949, the granite memorial, flanked on both sides by American Flags, pays tribute to the brave men of Lincoln Park, that gave their lives in the second world war, that others may be free.  Additional plaques were later added, including the Korean and Vietnam Wars, along with a newer addition to the left, with boots, a rifle and helmet that pay tribute to those that served in the more recent Middle Eastern conflicts.

The men in which this memorial was originally erected for, were called our Greatest Generation.  They turned up in droves at recruiting centers all over the country, and volunteered to ship out to foreign lands, knowing that they may never return home again. 

In a day and age when most people thoughtlessly disregard out Military, it's difficult to fathom an entire country lining up to head overseas, or help with the war effort back home.  It was a team effort, and everyone was a part of it. 

The plaque on the memorial is filled with the names of some of those brave men.  Next time you're driving up Fort Street, take a second and glance over at the Memorial, and think about the men that paid the ultimate price for the freedoms we take for granted every day.  If you have a few minutes, maybe stop by and read the inscriptions, and the names on the plaque.  It's good to know the names of a few people, who died so that you could be free.

-MT