The three fatherly figures in my life served a total of 16 years in various branches of the armed forces. My father (Frank Gable 1928-1978) was in the United States Marine Corps from 1946 to 1950, spending most of that time in post-WW II Europe. He also served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1954 and fought in the Korean War. My father-in-law (Tony Hrkach 1925-1995) served in the U.S. Air Force during WW II. He was shot down over Yugoslavia (ironically enough, his father’s birth country), parachuted to safety only to spend many long months in a POW camp. My stepfather, Joe Power, served and fought in the Korean War.
A common thread with each of them is that none were/are comfortable speaking of their wartime experiences.
As a mother of five sons, I can’t imagine the heartache of sending a son or sons off to fight for his country. It is also difficult to fathom saying goodbye to my husband so that he could fight in a war far away.
Which is why I want to remember my fathers in a special way today. I honor Frank Gable, Tony Hrkach, Joe Power and all veterans for so generously serving so that we all might be free.
Copyright 2009 Ellen Gable Hrkach
Plot Line and Sinker (Ellen Gable, Author) 
Remembering them and all who have served and who are serving – and their families and loved ones – with you. Beautiful tribute, Ellie. xo
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