21 is Too Young to Die

Today we remember. We remember those who lost their lives so we could be free. This is one man from Grangeville, Idaho's Story. 21 is too young to die. 

I never knew my Great Uncle Robin Willey. He died in Vietnam after being wounded by a landmine. It broke my Great Grandparents hearts. He was their baby.

After Robin died, my Grandmother wrote this poem.

"Our Son"

We lost our son in Viet Nam!

I could not see our Father's plan,

I could not see why he should die.

In seeking this was God's reply

"Be calm my child," he said to me,

"For I have only set him free,"

"He's done his part, so for awhile

be patient; there is work for him to do

Beyond the veil, I promise you."

Now when my heart is filled with grief,

I go to "Him" and seek relief.

He gave his son that we might be,

together in Eternity."

I can't even imagine losing a child. My children are everything to me and to see one of them taken from me by war would be gut-wrenching.

He was the 1st fatality of Grangeville, Idaho in Vietnam. My Grandparents were flow to Japan after he was injured and were luckily able to be by his bedside when he passed. After stepping on the landmine, shrapnel embedded his chest, spleen, kidney, arms, and legs. Ultimately, the injuries caused him to develop pneumonia and die.

Before he enlisted in the army, Robin was a good athlete, playing basketball and football in high school. He attended the University of Idaho for a year before going into the service.

He died March 26th and was due to come home the end of May.

Robin never really wanted to join the army, but knew he would most likely be drafted, so he took the initiative to enlist.

His name lies on a plaque here in Boise that has been dedicated to those killed in the Vietnam war.

I'll admit, I've never personally known anyone that has gone to war. For a long time, although I have always been patriotic and grateful to live in America, I couldn't really relate to what it must be like to have a loved one serving overseas.

Country radio changed that for me. As you call in everyday for our troop salute at 9:45 to pay honor to those who are serving or have served, I hear the sorrow, pain, and pride in your voices. It brings to light that these men and women are people who have left their lives, their families, and the comfort of their homes to protect our freedom and the freedom of others. I have learned of the great sacrifice of military wives who play the "single parent" role for often times months on end.

God Bless America and may we remember the real reason why we celebrate Memorial Day today.