Never Forget

On this day each year America stops to remember our fallen heroes. It's Memorial Day, after all. For my family, though, we remember every day. We think of the fallen every day. We think of my husband's dear friend, Hutch.

I've told you about him before. But, I'm gonna tell you about him again. And again and again. I'll tell you about him often so that he isn't forgotten.

Andrew Hutchins, better known as Hutch by his closest friends and family, was an American Soldier. He was a son. A brother. A husband. When he was killed his wife was pregnant with their first daughter. So, while he was also a daddy, his daughter, Allyssa, will never know him. Hutch was never able to hold his baby girl in his arms. He was also a great friend. I'm told he was as good a friend as any guy could ever ask for. He loved hard and he worked hard.

This past Fall I had the privilege to meet Hutch's family. His dad, step-mom and brother invited Hubs and I into their Maine home and we spent a few days over the anniversary of Hutch's death together. {this was Hubs' second trip up there but, my first} Those few days were so special for me. I was able to meet the family of a man who served beside my husband and hear stories of their time together. Hutch's dad shared stories of him when we was a little boy. We remembered Andrew. It was good.



Hutch's wife and daughter met up with us at the cemetery on the date of his death. We laid flowers at his headstone, paid respect at the Memorial Wall and shed tears as 3-year-old Allyssa gave love to her daddy. {I can't even write this post without tears streaming down my cheeks}

Today, and every day, we remember Hutch.

I challenge you today to enjoy your day off and grill your hamburgers and hotdogs but, remember that you have this day as a holiday because of the men and women who died for your freedom. Think about them. Pray for their families that they left behind. If you find yourself out and about and see a veteran or serviceman THANK THEM. If you're too shy to thank them say a silent prayer for them.

Jeff, Betsy, Ben, Heather and Allyssa, we love you! Your son, brother, husband and daddy will NEVER be forgotten!