Veteran's Day, 2014

Today is November 11, 2014 and once again the nation takes time to pause and remember its Veterans; both alive and dead, for their service and sacrifices.

To those who served and have left active duty, Martha and I extend our sincerest appreciation.

To those who still man the ramparts in our country's armed forces, we also send our thanks and wish you all Godspeed and a safe return home to your loved ones.

I rode today in what RichardM would consider a balmy 17°F (-8ºC), with a very light snow falling on us here in the Metro Denver area to Fort Logan National Cemetery this morning.

Warmly bundled up in layers and with the new Kolpin Grip Covers, I didn't feel the cold at all except when I would remove gloves to take pictures.  I was riding Scarlett, my 2014 Ural Patrol and the wet-looking streets were of no consequence.  The streets were clear, for the most part, and the snow flakes were simply blown about by the light winds across their surfaces.

Once at Fort Logan National Cemetery, I parked by Section 44 and paid a visit to SSGT Brian Joiner.  He was the son of a co-worker friend of mine.  Brian passed away while serving in the US Air Force.  Bryan is about as personal a connection I have to the thousands buried at Fort Logan.  I share, with the remainder, the satisfaction and honor to have been able to serve my country.

 In the center of the picture, Brian's tombstone.

 Part of Section 44

 At one of the small ponds within the cemetery, there were

flocks of geese both in the ponds and flying overhead this cold day

 A little bit of Fall Color hangs on...

 I think of this flag pole as the Main Post's flag pole, 

from when this cemetery was previously an active Army post.

On previous Veteran's Days there would have been more flags

lining the main avenue into the cemetery; perhaps I was just too early.

Temperatures are supposed to continue to drop for the rest of today, with the weather-guessers calling for small amounts of snow tomorrow.  

I arrived home safely, gazing in satisfaction at "the colors" that flew from my home.  Martha and I have both served with and met great leaders and great soldiers, and wish all Veterans everywhere the very best of days.

To those who remember a veteran  who gave his or her all, we share in your sorrow even as we honor their sacrifice.