I was blessed. My airman came home from every single one of his missions. When Mr. Decor retired from the Air Force 5 years ago we decided against the average ho hum series of speeches and put a Scottish twist on things as a nod to his heritage.
His clan motto is “Either Peace or War”~ very befitting the military don’t you think? The actual ceremony was held in a hanger large enough to hold everyone in attendance. Our guests knew they were in for something special when the bagpipes started. The piper was our distant cousin, Scott Gunn, who is a member of the US Air Force Drum, Bugle Core and Pipe Band. Scott has played for the president on numerous occasions. (It should be noted that a piped procession is an honor reserved for very few.)
All of Mr. Decor’s family attended. His father, a former Navy man, was presented with an American flag that had been flown over our nations capital.
Each of his sister’s and mother received a corsage that included Scottish thistle.
It was fun that so many of the attendee’s came wearing their plaid. The Fashionista wore her Black Watch kilt, while Sweet Boy and I sported the Gunn dress tartan.
Afterwards we traveled to the Warner Robins, AFB Officers Club for a formal sit down dinner.
Here is a close up of the image I used for the place cards / menu (printed on the back) found in a 1951 cookbook entitled “A World of Good Eating”.
Of course there was entertainment. Everyone was invited to play the pipes. I now know what Scots wear under their kilts. :)
The family that pipes together, stays out of breath together.
A good time was had by all.
Sweet tokens of appreciation included Scottish shortbread and butterscotch candies. They were of course tied up with plaid ribbon.
You are welcome to see how we celebrated the holiday while living in Europe and learn how we continue to raise a patriot to ensure that future generations acknowledge and respect the ultimate price that was paid for our country.
Happy Memorial Day!
Laura
