This is a letter written by my Grandfather who served in World War I and II, and was a chemistry and military science professor.   It was attached to the back of a large, framed and mounted picture of the American flag he gave to his grandsons.

Skipper...and Buster are my brothers.  He called me Pepper.

  Dear Skipper, Pepper and Buster:

            You are of course beginning to understand that Our Flag is something more than a mere attractive combination of colored fabrics.  You will as you grow older, know that this flag we love is not only pleasing to look at but most beautiful because it is the emblem for all that is good in the way of life in our United States of America – a Nation of Free Men.

            I have seen tears in the eyes of uniformed men as they stood at attention and saluted when Our Flag passed before them.  Do not think for one minute that these men were soft, timid sissies.  They were tough, courageous fighting men and there ribbons on their uniforms, over their hearts, to prove it.

Through the years men have fought, have been crippled or have died because they believed in the Principles of Government for which Our Flag has always been the symbol.  These men have held Our Flag in reverence with an inner feeling closely resembling that with which they held their God.  May the Good God grant that this may always be true.

Through the years many women have seen their sweethearts, husbands or fathers leave their loved homes when War threatened Our Flag.  Your wonderful Mother had not yet been born when I entered the Army in World War I and she was just a high school girl when I put on the uniform in World War II.  I well remember when I left your dear Grandmother F and your Aunt Peggy in 1917.  Your Aunt was then three years old.  I also remember when I left your Grandmother, Mother and Aunt Peggy in 1943.  You should know that the women who remained at home were as brave as their menfolk.  It was their love and courage which “Kept the Home Fires Burning”.

            Through the years there have been women who also proudly wore the uniform of one or another of the branches of our Armed Forces.  They too were brave and loyal Americans.  Some of them gave their lives for their Country.

            We must admit that in past years there have been men and women who were not true Americans.  There have been disloyal organizations within out Nation.  It is likely that there will always be some such specimens of mankind.  Some of these people are greedy, selfish lawbreakers.  Some have been and are active, dangerous traitors.  It is difficult if not impossible for true citizens to understand the workings of the abnormal or subnormal minds of such contemptible, treacherous and supposedly human beings.  However:-loyal Americans will never permit the existence of these individuals or their organizations to dull the luster of Our Flag.

            Your Dad wore the uniform of our Armed Forces in World War II.  I know he was and is proud of his right to wear the uniform.  It was and is a privilege and duty.  I know that you boys are proud of your Dad for serving as a loyal and true American.

            I hope and reverently pray that you may never need to go to War to help defend Our Flag, but, I know that if need be, you too will be brave, true and tough American Patriots.

                                                                                    Affectionately

                                                                                    Your Grandfather "Dan Dan"