Dave the American

Last week as many in America debated the definition of courage a man who embodied courage slipped from this life into the next.  His name didn't make a magazine cover, it was limited instead to a few lines under the 'Obituary' section.

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David Peterson, American, will be honored tomorrow by family, friends and those from his community. 

Most of you have never heard Dave's name before - yet you owe him a debt of gratitude.  You see, Dave is a hero.  Dave, at the age of 19 was drafted into the military and shipped off to Europe.  World War II was raging as Dave became one of the 1,800 men that made up the Devil's Brigade. 

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Earlier this year their unit was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal - the highest civilian honor given by Congress.  The medal was a long time coming - Dave turned 91 on his last birthday. 

Dave returned from the war, re-entered the work force, joined the Operating Engineers Local No. 324 and played a part in rebuilding our country.  Dave also played a part in my husband's growing up years - an honorary grandpa of sorts. 

 

And that is why this hat sits on our dining room table.  When Dave was heading for the warm Florida sunshine a few years ago he asked what TDM would like to have - and TDM choose the hat.  A symbol of a courageous friend.

Think what you will of wars, unions and heroes.  I know what a hero looks like - and that's Dave.