Coming Home...
In 1945, after peace was made, our weary soldiers headed home, after waiting here and there to be discharged. It's hard to imagine the elation felt by the folks back home as they welcomed sons, brothers, and husbands to their tables. The society columns were full of the excitement.
The Crescent-News, November 23, 1945:
"Honor Return Soldier
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Notestine, south of Ney, entertained at a turkey dinner on Thanksgiving Day in honor of their son, Delmar, who was discharged February at Indian Gap, Pa, after 38 months with the 5th Air Force, 25 months of which he was in New Guinea, the Philippines, Australia, East India, Okinawa and Japan.
Others present were: Helen N. Byers, Mariana Notestine, Herbert Sudholtz, Defiance; Jack Notestine and sons, Fort Wayne: Mr. and Mrs. E.B. Notestine; Jesse Notestine; Mr. and Mrs. Harley Notestine and sons; Tom and Bell and Mrs. Donley Rilla, Ney."
On the other side, think of the empty chairs at some tables and the grief-filled Christmases. It's difficult to be joyful at the holidays if some beloved family member or friend is not present.
This type of meditation appeared often in the papers to help people deal with the times.
Hi, Diane-
ReplyDeleteThis is Linda Seither. I often attend and enjoy the monthly DGS gatherings on the college campus. I grow increasingly interested in our heritage as time passes.
I heard mention of this blog at a few meetings but just checked it out for the first time today but will make it a regular habit.
Thank you for all the good work you do. L
What a kind comment! Thank you, Linda! Maybe we'll see each other in February.
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