Posted by Kris Harrington Sheeley on May 29, 2004:

28 May 2004 It was once long ago, on a sunny day, that I visited my father's uncle, "Buddy" Harrington in Durham, N.C. As a young child, I can remember his home even to this day, running through the same halls that his own son, John Milton ran through. At the time though, I did not know John Milton. You see, John Milton died in service to his country 2 years before I was even born, but on that bright sunny day, I was told that he was as gregarious and energetic as I was at that age. It was at that time that I began to realize that I was kin to a hero. Throughout my life, I've visited the moving wall and seen his name, I've watched true story movies depicting the first battles of the Vietnam Conflict, and each time I do these things, I cry. Not for the loss... no.... I cry because his dedication, as well as the dedication of all the other soldiers of the United States military, protected what so many hold dear and so many more take for granted.... Freedom. I am proud to say that my cousin John Milton was a member of that group of people that did fight for what they believed in, giving us what no one should ever take for granted. Do I wish I got the chance to know him? Sure... Do I grieve because I didn't? What makes you think I don't? Because of John Milton I can say "I'm Proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free... And I won't forget the men who died, to give that right to me...." (Lee Greenwood, "Proud to be an American") May your spirit carry on, John Milton, and I ask that you will watch over my son when he enters the Navy, guiding him in the strength and courage it takes to do what you did.... I love you From a cousin, Kris Harrington Sheeley ksheeley@myndworx.com

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