Dear Editor,
On this Memorial Day weekend I would like to extend my condolences to those families who have lost a loved one in the military service of our country. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the total of U.S. Military Service during wartime equals 41,892,128, with battle deaths totaling 651,031, and other deaths (in theater) 308,800 and other deaths in Service (non-theater) 230,254. These figures are calculated through 1991, so of course are not reflective of the more recent Middle Eastern and global conflicts, as well as accidental military service deaths which have occurred on USA soil. Additionally, we are sadly losing our brave men and women who served in World War II and the Korean Conflict as well as the Vietnam War.
In particular I am thinking of my ancestor, Samuel Howard, who served as a Revolutionary War soldier when he was only seventeen. He did not, thankfully, perish in battle (although accounts of his and fellow soldiers tell of a musket ball which passed through his hat!) but went on to have a family and serve as a member of his town council and community leader.
Another Patriot ancestor was Sgt. Henry Hensley, who served several years in his North Carolina regiment while also raising a family. Without these first military heroes, I daresay we would have had a very different outcome relative to our history.
Those two brave men were here because their ancestors arrived on our shores as immigrants. Although I do have a Native American ancestor (great-great-grandmother) I am very gratified that my ancestral immigrants were able to establish themselves in their newly-adopted country, America. Let us never forget that unless you are a Native American, you are a product of immigration.
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution are proud to recognize the contributions of all our military personnel since those first beginnings of militias comprised primarily of farmers and others who fought for independence and recognition. We salute you, support you, and thank you for your brave sacrifices on our behalf.
Sharon McMahon
Vice Regent, Historian
Horseshoe Prairie Chapter
National Society Daughters of the American Revolution
Noblesville