A World War II Veteran Recognized
Ted Chaffee is another person I helped honor this year. A World War II veteran, Ted, who is a very good friend of mine, is nearing his final days. Ted has been, and is, a great inspiration to me and he has been a great example of America’s Greatest Generation. I wrote the following dedication to Ted and asked some of my colleagues to sign onto the letter. Several weeks ago, after framing the letter, I went to Ted’s house and bestowed it onto him. He was very touched, calling it one of the best things that has ever happened to him in his life. Wow, what a feeling that it meant so much to him. He deserved it!
Edwin “Ted” Chaffee
Many people of our generation take our freedom so lightly. However, you know first hand that freedom is not free. The men and women of your generation, the World War II generation – the Greatest Generation – responded to the call to duty when the world erupted into war.
Thank you Ted for putting your life on the line in the U.S. Navy during the war, not only to protect your country, but to protect the freedom of future generations of Americans. Even when your patrol boat hit that mine off the coast of France, and you were forced to swim ashore to an uncertain fate, we have little doubt that even in your fear you knew you were doing the right thing.
Your country, your state, and the people of our generation, and future generations, owe you a thank you for the sacrifices that you made.
Thank you for your service.