~EnigmaticDrgn

About a week or more ago, I was quiet and subdued. Some had asked on SL if I was alright to which I never gave a full answer except for a select few. The rest deserve to know.

My grandfather passed away on October 2nd after a month in a hospice and two weeks in the hospital. Complications by gall stones were the culprit. He was a tough individual and I thought he would overcome it. I was wrong. Pancreatis that became septic and affected his kidneys. He was 91.

A week ago this day, my family and I laid him to rest at the Riverside National Cemetery across from the March Air Force base. During his eulogy I learned more about him then when he was around. I learned he did more then take part in D day during WW II. That he was there at Iwo Jima during those days and through it all he survived. When people said he was a hero, he would humbly reply,"I'm no hero. The heroes are the ones that never returned or survived."

He grew roses in his yard to which he offered the ladies, put others before him and loved everyone in his family. I'll miss his laugh, his voice, the way he and his siblings would bicker and argue. Most of all I'll miss how he used to greet me.

"You kicking ass and taking names?"
"Yes Grandpa."
"Good."

Semper Fi, Grandpa.