Memorial Day 2008

Fr. Paul's grave was among many we visited Monday.
This has been a tough year for Mom and Dad when it comes to losing loved ones. Mom's grandmother on her Dad's side died and her best friend, Dana, had her father die. And Dad lost two uncles 24 days apart in February in March.

So visiting graves on Memorial Day took on some extra meaning this year. In addition to visiting Uncle Arch's grave, we also stopped by Walt and Dorothy's and Fr. Paul's. Mom would have visited Dana's father's grave, but she wasn't sure where that cemetery is located.

Footnote:
Dad's cousin, Mindy, wrote a letter about Fr. Paul that was published in the Omaha World-Herald:

Gone but not forgotten
I thank The World-Herald for publishing the May 26 special section, “Rendezvous with destiny.” The men and women of World War II have amazing stories to tell.

In January, I lost my uncle, the Rev. Paul J. Begley, who was not only a devoted Catholic priest but also a proud World War II veteran who served as a radio operator aboard the USS Nassau CVE 16.

He often met with other veterans for lunch to share stories and reminisce about the experiences they had during their stint in the U.S. Navy. His pride was evident to the end, as “Anchors Aweigh” was played at his funeral.

The memory of that tune being sung by his family and friends will forever be etched in my mind. I cherish the stories that Uncle Paul passed on to me about his service to our country and hope the surviving veterans do us the honor in sharing their histories with us.