On the eve of Independence Day, I think about the frequency with which I write “World War II veteran” each week as I prepare obituaries for the six weekly newspapers under the Current Publishing flag.

I never knew many of these people, but as I read of their service to their country, and the places where they did battle, images of old black-and-white movies flicker across my mind. I am just amazed at the ability and adaptability with which millions of young, unworldly mostly farm boys dropped everything and went to war. Because of them, we continue to celebrate Independence Day.

Did they know they were helping preserve our independence and freedom or did they just feel it was their duty to their country to help?

I’m sure that only older readers regularly check the obituaries. It would be a revelation to all those who are planning to celebrate our independence to take a few minutes and review the headlines of the obituary pages and acknowledge the passing of another generation who preserved the freedom and independence of our nation.

Yes, it’s summer!

Summer is upon us, although the weather doesn’t reveal this. Schools are closed for another year and will be fraught with many changes in a few months when they open again. There are new districts, new school boards, all-day kindergarten (again) in some areas and surely there will be many new students whose families have changed residences over the summer months.

For those parents of kids who will be attending school “all day” as they enter kindergarten, don’t worry. Many of us went to school all day, Monday through Friday, and we survived. Most of us learned to read and write in those early school days and we survived getting up early for the school bus and arriving home late, sometimes in the dark. Yes, times have changed – but not entirely. Some of our fathers were away at war and most of us knew someone who had polio or some other dread disease that today’s youth (and their parents) never need fear. Have faith in your kids. They’re a lot more adaptable than you ever imagined. And think of all they will learn!

All of this rain means many gardens are being replanted. Strawberry beds are in peril (look for higher prices) but there seem to be an abundance of blueberry bushes, so perhaps that crop will be saved. Several businesses in Windham are expanding and we look forward to a bountiful summer!

See you in a couple of weeks.