Crowley, Texas, held its annual Freedom Festival yesterday. =] It was hot (105 degrees!!), but worth going to. The image is of Dana Bowman, USA (retired), a double amputee who jumped out of a helicopter, carrying the Stars and Stripes. He lost his legs back in 1994, as a result of a midair collision with a member of his Golden Knights parachute team: the other man, Jose Aguillon, died. Dana is still jumping out of perfectly good working aircraft and going around the country, inspiring others with his message, "It's not the disability, it's the ability."
We had an prime spot for the fireworks display.
... some of them so large, it seems they will land in our laps or singe our already sunburnt faces, ....
Indeed. RIGHT overhead. =]
Image and videos (c) 2009, Karla Dorman
... some of them so large, it seems
they will land in our laps or singe
our already sunburnt faces, these
nightflowers blooming in the velvet
darkness. The thump of mortarfire
shakes the ground under our backs
and nervous laughter from our lips:
while we watch the pyrotechnics
overhead, can't help but think of
the men and women Over There,
who are not enjoying the display
in their skies. Can't help but think
of the ones who came home, some
who were broken in body and mind.
Can't help but think of the ones
who didn't make it back, who paid
the worst and best price of all: the
right to celebrate our freedom. As
the finale shudders our souls, it is
them I applaud: those who serve(d).
a brave man, like so many countless others that have sacrificed for America, freedom and democracy -- the American heroes who reach out and touch our lives daily -- most without recognition or thanks -- bless them, everyone -- peace and love my dear friend -- Jon Michael
Awesome write,Karla!! The story of the parachute jumper is very sad, but he's a testament to the courage of those "over there" who bravely sacrifice so we may continue to live in freedom. My heart goes out to them.
It is my sincere hope that we all realize what is really important to celebrate and who is deserving of our adulation in this great country. Beautifully written Karla, let us take those words to heart.
Yes, they do not get enough respect or support..Bravo, I salute our fighting men/women over seas and in past conflicts/wars.
Nicely done Karla,
Peace, love, and light,
Amber "V"
Got to hand it to you: you not only chase storms, you also chase fireworks! LOL And you also served our country; you're one of those who made it back, broken in body, but not in spirit. I am proud of you, and you seem so humble: you always honor others before yourself. Thank you for your service and welcome home, Airman! *SALUTE* LOVE the piccy of Dana Bowman; he is absolutely inCREDible! And loved, loved, LOVED the fireworks/videos! STUNNING!!
Crowley can be proud of itself; it was their BEST display yet! :)
(((HUGS))) and much love, your grateful twin, Karen Lynn. :D *standing ovation for our veterans, and YOU!*
So right you are and might I also add in all those who support either back at home or on foreign ground the efforts of our soldiers, sailors and airmen. The thousands of clerks, shipyard workers, civilian employees etc who put in long hard hours to make sure the servicemen have what they need.
Indeed, indeed, Karla and thank you for your heart-felt tribute to each of them. Their devotion to freedom leaves me more than grateful for without them, I would know nothing of this wonderful life I am living. Excellent job!!
Take care,
Sherry
A short story of mine was included in an anthology of short fiction by fourteen of Port Town Publishing Company's authors. It is out of print and no longer available except as a download. Contact me at charlenetess@yahoo.com if you want it.
For the past two years (2006-2008) The Bridge of Silver Wings has earned a name for itself both as a series of poems published in different e-zines and as a book first published in 2007.
What makes this 2009 edition a special one is th
Share
Print
Save
Follow
Be always safe,
Karen
Enjoyed reading
Love & peace
William
Anna
Hugs,
Ingeborg
Nicely done Karla,
Peace, love, and light,
Amber "V"
Love and blessings,
Eileen
Georg
Got to hand it to you: you not only chase storms, you also chase fireworks! LOL And you also served our country; you're one of those who made it back, broken in body, but not in spirit. I am proud of you, and you seem so humble: you always honor others before yourself. Thank you for your service and welcome home, Airman! *SALUTE* LOVE the piccy of Dana Bowman; he is absolutely inCREDible! And loved, loved, LOVED the fireworks/videos! STUNNING!!
Crowley can be proud of itself; it was their BEST display yet! :)
(((HUGS))) and much love, your grateful twin, Karen Lynn. :D *standing ovation for our veterans, and YOU!*
Great tribute to our men/women in uniform. Often we get a day off and forget what it's all about. This was so perfect.
Mary
Fee
Take care,
Sherry