Memorial Day!

Memorial Day -- a day to remember those who died in the service of our country.

This is my great-great-great-grandfather, James Talbott. 

When the Spanish-American War broke out in 1898 (think Teddy Roosevelt & his Rough Riders :), James Talbott joined Troop D, the Springfield troop of the First Illinois cavalry, as first lieutenant. An obituary describes him thus:

“Self-sacrificing always he won from the soldiers in his command an esteem which was ardent enough to be termed love. Though not strong, Lieut. Talbott was ever ready to lead through tedious drills and in hours of military toil. He was ever ready to relieve his fellow-officers and fellow soldiers in the ranks and it was while making such self-sacrifice [that] he was overcome by the terrific heat of the south, compelled to resign his commission and to return home.”
“It was said at that time that Talbott was one of the best horsemen in the service. He was perfectly at home in a saddle and his riding was a source of pride among the members of the troop.” (mortuary record)

 “When Lieut. Talbott left his command at Chickamunga there was a most affecting scene. Every man in Troop D loved Lieut. Talbott because he was one of the few officers who understood human nature and who realized his men were human, one and all. As he went down the company street to say “good-bye” to the boys his command gathered about him and only sobs were heard. Strong men wept to lose from their soldierly brotherhood one who was such an exemplary man and soldier.” (from the obituary)

The typhoid fever he contracted while serving his country in Chickamunga never left him, and he died a few years later at 26, in 1902, leaving his young wife a widow with two little girls.

I don't know this man, but he was among the many friends of my grandfather's who were killed in World War II. 

May we remember the men who died to preserve our liberties!

On Memorial Day, we gathered with friends for games and fellowship. :) Here's the unfinished room we ate in.

Our guys!

Getting ready for "Steal the Bacon!"

Lining up...

The watchers

Mr. Simmons and Mr. Gardner face off... ;)

Run for it!

A scissor-tailed flycatcher watches the proceedings (unfortunately, he didn't come any closer, so this is the best shot I could get :( )

"Steal the Bacon!"

We then played a lot of volleyball, but since we were all playing, we didn't get any pictures... ;)

Dinner conversations

The end of a fun day!

More visiting -- this time 'round Mr. Grigg's truck!

Sarah's hair is really lovely!

Stephen man

Watching something

Ruth :)

Stephen S. -- a darling 3-year-old! :)