On this Memorial Day, Never Forget About What is Important!

[Debbi]

Please never forget to use your gift. I've taken photographs for years. I've only taken portraits for the last couple of years, with confidence. I wanted to take a portrait of my mom and dad a couple of years ago when my dad became ill. He wasn't able or wiling to get out for that "great portrait". The week before Mother's Day I suggested to my mom that we get together and I bring my camera. I had portable lights and a flexible background that I could put behind them on the sofa. My dad as not able to move much and he had been very ill for years. But, they had not had portraits done in 40 years and I knew I could get something that would be cherished. It may not be in the perfect background - it may not be with the perfect posing - but who cares? It would still be cherished. I captured the images below, and a couple of others. They may not be technically perfect, but you know what - my dad was no longer to even stand the very next day. That was the very last opportunity to take these and there will be no other chances. Happy Memorial Day everyone!!!!!!!!!!

[Dobick]

Sometimes quality of the craft does not enter into the equation of the gravity of the photograph and the impact that it will have on those who view it.

You did good... Real good!

[Debbi]

Thank you, Kent! I really do appreciate it. I know time is short. He's on hospice care. He stopped eating about a week ago and now won't even take any fluids. These pictures priceless, even if they aren't technically perfect.

[shutterfire]

Prayers for you and your family Debbi.
I am sure that you and your children will cherish this photograph for years to come great job.

[L Stegall]

Oh, Debbi, I'm so sorry to hear you are dealing with this. But, these portraits are ones you and your mother (and siblings, aunts/uncles, et al.) will treasure for years and years. You can feel the love and affection between them in the way she has her arm around him and their fingers are intertwined. I hope these images will bring comfort and fond memories to you and your family in the days and years ahead.

[Jeff_Green]

Originally Posted by Debbi

These pictures priceless, even if they aren't technically perfect.

Debbi, they ARE perfect.

Since this thread is about what is important on Memorial Day, I hope you don't mind me tagging along and posting something that makes me proud.

Thank you Dad.

GREEN, TERRY ROLAND
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Terry Roland Green (2152200), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an Assistant Machine Gunner with the Third Platoon, Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, on 20 December 1967, in connection with operations against insurgent Communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. During a company search and clear operation near Bao An Tay, Lance Corporal Green's platoon was moving to a position from which it could cover the company's advance across an open rice paddy when it was taken under heavy enemy automatic weapons fire. In the initial burst of fire, Lance Corporal Green's machine gunner was wounded. Unhesitatingly assuming duties as gunner, he immediately set up the machine gun and delivered an accurate volume of first on the enemy positions. He effectively suppressed the Viet Cong fire, enabling his platoon and the remainder of the company to safely cross the open area. Continuing its mission, Company E made contact with well-entrenched elements of a Viet Cong battalion. When it came under vicious enemy fire, the point squad of Lance Corporal Green's platoon was halted in the open and suffered three serious casualties. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lance Corporal Green courageously crawled forward to the exposed squad's position with extra ammunition. Despite intense enemy fire, he courageously moved his machine gun to a position forward of the pinned down squad and directed extremely effective fire on the enemy positions. Repeatedly exposing himself to heavy Viet Cong fire, he was instrumental in providing covering fire for the evacuation of the wounded. He steadfastly remained in this perilous position until all the casualties had been evacuated and the squad had reached a more secure area. He was among the last to leave the hazardous forward area. His heroism and selfless actions under hostile fire undoubtedly prevented additional casualties to his unit and inspired all who observed him. By his bold initiative, exceptional courage, outstanding professional skill and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Lance Corporal Green upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Indianapolis, Indiana

[Debbi]

Originally Posted by shutterfire

Prayers for you and your family Debbi.
I am sure that you and your children will cherish this photograph for years to come great job.

Thank you very much!

Originally Posted by micheljack

I agree with you. They also show college softball over college baseball, which is very entertaining. Lacrosse is only on once a year and they will make a lot of money off it. Baseball games were meant to be played during the day on Memorial Day. They don't have the rights to air during the days.

Huh?

Originally Posted by L Stegall

Oh, Debbi, I'm so sorry to hear you are dealing with this. But, these portraits are ones you and your mother (and siblings, aunts/uncles, et al.) will treasure for years and years. You can feel the love and affection between them in the way she has her arm around him and their fingers are intertwined. I hope these images will bring comfort and fond memories to you and your family in the days and years ahead.

Thank you, Lisa! They've always had a very affectionate relationship and while I hated that had to shoot with a WA causing the hands to distort, it truly conveys their relationship all of these years.

Originally Posted by Jeff_Green

Debbi, they ARE perfect.

Since this thread is about what is important on Memorial Day, I hope you don't mind me tagging along and posting something that makes me proud.

Thank you Dad.

Thank you, Jeff. I'm glad you shared - you should be proud!

[Debbi]

Thank you to everyone who sent their prayers. He's at peace now. I love you, Daddy!!!!!!!!!!!

[Dobick]

Damn -- I'm sorry for your loss!

My prayers and wishes are with your family.

[L Stegall]

Debbi, so sorry to hear your latest news. I will continue to hold you and your family in my thoughts.

[Jeff_Green]

Sorry for your loss, Debbi, but happy for his gain.
May your love for him help comfort you through this time.

[Westx]

Debbie so sorry to here this sad news. May God bless you and yours.