Julie Stranges (right) is pictured at the "National Salute to Veterans," which was held at the Sepulveda VA. Also pictured (left) is Marianne Davis, Chief of Voluntary Service and member of the Los Angeles-Eschscholtzia Chapter, and one of our WWII veteran heroes (photo courtesy of Seymour Bloom).Congratulations to Julie Ann Stranges, Chatsworth Chapter member, for her 2nd Place National Award in the American Heritage Literature and Drama – Poetry category! The following was her submission:
ATTACHMENT TO LITERATURE AND DRAMA ENTRY – POETRY
My husband/life partner, Frank, and I often spoke about his father's service during WW I, and recalled his death at the VA Sepulveda Hospital following a severe stroke. Frank’s unwavering support of my VA volunteer work was in inspiration to me. After Frank unexpectedly and suddenly died in early November 2008, a day came when I had to go to his office to look through his papers. His office walls were literally covered with awards and Certificates of Appreciation from Veterans' Service Organizations to which he had made sizeable donations. I saw what service truly meant to him and that it was his gentle Italian father, Natale, who truly instilled in him what an honor it is to serve others.
To Natale and Frank Stranges, I dedicate the words I have written which weave "A Patchwork of Our Past," and bring Our Heritage to life.
A FATHER’S PRIDE
By Julie Ann Stranges
When you were young your father's limp
Was the only indication
That a soldier injured in the war
Could give beyond his situation.
As years went by you grew into
A man, making your father proud.
He dedicated your life to service.
And you spoke to any size crowd.
His words of wisdom rang the bells
Of patriotism, a living treasure.
Throughout the days that followed
Your giving could never be measured.
Time brought to you a share of tribulations.
Your dedication to service never wavered.
The generous spirit residing in your heart
Was stronger than a dreadful situation.
Your voice was silenced far too soon.
They worked hard and tried their best
To bring life back to you that morning.
You are now with Poppie, at rest.
I didn’t know 'til days passed by
How deeply dedicated you were
To the soldiers like your father
And the Purple Heart that he had earned.
The awards that filled your office walls
Were a testimony of heartfelt words
That described the deep devotion
You passed on to others who had served.
By Julie Ann Stranges
When you were young your father's limp
Was the only indication
That a soldier injured in the war
Could give beyond his situation.
As years went by you grew into
A man, making your father proud.
He dedicated your life to service.
And you spoke to any size crowd.
His words of wisdom rang the bells
Of patriotism, a living treasure.
Throughout the days that followed
Your giving could never be measured.
Time brought to you a share of tribulations.
Your dedication to service never wavered.
The generous spirit residing in your heart
Was stronger than a dreadful situation.
Your voice was silenced far too soon.
They worked hard and tried their best
To bring life back to you that morning.
You are now with Poppie, at rest.
I didn’t know 'til days passed by
How deeply dedicated you were
To the soldiers like your father
And the Purple Heart that he had earned.
The awards that filled your office walls
Were a testimony of heartfelt words
That described the deep devotion
You passed on to others who had served.
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