I was near the start of the parade in New York and stood to watch for a bit. I hate war but boy I am proud of our veterans. It was very touching to see people, mostly men, of all strips, colors, ages and in all kinds of shape together.

I salut our veterans and their families. I can only begin to imagine what they go through. My family doesn’t have a long military tradition but all of my Mother’s cousins served in World War II. Her cousin Paul Brach used to tell us how he singlehandedly saved Picasso. Paul was a great artist and a wonderful storyteller.

My Father’s uncle Murray was also in World War II. In fact, he was one of the only survivors from Pearl Harbor. My Mother was telling me earlier today that when she was young, veterans of World War I would sell poppies and wear them in their lapel. I don’t know if any veterans from World War I are still alive or not. I think not. This morning I saw many, many survivors from World War II, Vietnam, Korea, and other wars.  This blog is just a note of thanks for their sacrifices. I also noticed many friends posting pictures of their loved ones and themselves in uniform.

I drank American wine and raised a glass to those who have fought and to those who are still overseas in distant lands.