I originally wrote this three years ago, but wanted to share it again...

Hopefully, you're taking some time today to remember those who have served, those who are currently serving our country, and especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our way of life.  I am also. I'm particularly remembering someone today who served in the US Army, not during wartime, but right after World War II. I'm referring to my Father, Harold Wiley.

Dad enlisted in the Army at the age of 17 in 1946. He needed parental consent to do so. Technical Corporal Wiley was sent to Japan, where he taught English to Japanese schoolchildren.  His career path was set.  His father was a career educator, starting as a teacher, principal, and later superintendent of schools.  Upon Dad's return to the U.S., he attended St. Lawrence University, where he & my mother met. He injured his back while doing roof work on the school's hockey arena. This injury nagged him for the rest of his life. After graduating, Dad become a teacher, basketball coach and later a school principal.  He was a key person in two school district consolidations.   My father was an avid outdoorsman. he loved hunting, fishing, boating, and golf.  Dad was a lifelong fan of the New York Giants Football team. They won their first Super Bowl on his birthday.  He was also a fan of the New York, later San Francisco Giants baseball team.  His all time Favorite player was Willie Mays. He was appalled that my brother, Jim & I embraced the Yankees.

While my siblings & I were growing up, he repeatedly stressed the importance of treating people with respect. I'm glad he did.   I miss you, Dad.

dad
Mary Ellen Ormiston
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