I was born during WWII, the year before it ended. My dad decided to stay in the service after the war and didn't retire from the army until 1961. During the years after the war, I often say that I grew up among many a hero. After the war, the services became highly "professional" as the draft was for most intents "suspended" as few conscripts were required until just before the Korean War. At an early age, I learned to read the ribbons that soldiers wore on their Class A uniforms. Their chest ribbons were a shorthand identification code that gave a part of their personal history during the war. During that period NCO and Officers were at their professional peaks! A sharp eye could identify Bronze Stars, Silver Stars, Distinguished Service Crosses, and so on. I was always very highly impressed with the Oak Leaf Clusters attached to some of those ribbons. However, one could make observations of medals awarded, but no one I ever knew would have dared ask about how that medal was won!
To my estimate these men and women were "the greatest generation." I only wish that what I came to know and understand about that generation, I knew then.
