Last summer, the newest installation in the Capital Mall, the World War II Memorial, was unveiled. On a recent walk, I snapped a few pictures.

All the Oregon vets are listed on that wall.

The obelisk is surrounded by an inlaid map in the pavement. I took this picture of the South Pacific area where my daddy served.

Of course, I never really get it about war.

On a much lighter note, I also do not get it about combat fatigues being the only uniforms soldiers seem to have these days.  I miss real uniforms.  You can see why.

Very handsome.  And I’m pretty sure this is the first photo that was ever taken of me, hiding safely under Mother’s arm.  Anyone know who that sweet little boy is in the background?

Here he is on leave in March, 1943.  They let him come home to meet me before shipping him out.

And, apparently, that happened immediately.  He wrote on the back of this posed, touristy shot “Honolulu, May 1943.”

Not sure when or where this is, but I love it.

Love you too, Daddy.  Thanks.