This Veteran’s Day, I want to take the time to acknowledge all the military heroes who have sacrificed so much to make our country safe. My late husband, 1st Lt. James L. Hull, is one of those American heroes. He was killed nearly 50 years ago, while on a combat mission during the Vietnam War. We will always remember him. Our active-duty military and veterans, that have served at home and overseas, often serve amid adverse circumstances while separated from their families and friends. We … [Read more...]
Honoring My Late Husband, 1st Lt. James L. Hull, this Memorial Day
I’ve written extensively about losing Larry Hull, my late husband, and our daughter’s father, whose plane crashed in Laos in 1971 during the Vietnam War. Larry is one of thousands of soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during that difficult and divisive war. Before he left for war, I promised Larry he would be buried at Arlington National Cemetery if he didn’t come home. 35 years after his death, when his small forward air controller was shot down behind enemy lines, Larry’s remains were … [Read more...]
I’ve Looked at War from Both Sides Now
February reminds me of love, with Valentine’s Day just two weeks away. Of course, for me, it’s a season to celebrate the unbreakable, beautiful bonds I’ve built with those whom I’ve loved and admired deeply over the course of my life. As I’m now in my seventh decade, this group increasingly includes friends and family who are no longer living, including my soulmate and late husband Larry. This year, with news that America’s longest war – the conflict in Afghanistan – may at long last be … [Read more...]
Musical Memories: Ballad of the Green Berets
With all the heightened rhetoric these days about the potential for armed conflict between the U.S. and North Korea, it seems especially fitting this week to commemorate National Purple Heart Day on August 7. This special day honors all of the brave men and women over the years who have been injured or given their lives for our country. This post specifically honors my husband, 1st Lieutenant James Larry Hull, and father to our daughter, Laura. Larry was posthumously awarded the Purple … [Read more...]
Musical Memories: The White Cliffs of Dover
Music, like stories, brings us together. Last month, May 29th, we celebrated Memorial Day, a federal holiday honoring those who died while serving our country in the armed forces. On June 14th, Flag Day, we celebrated the adoption of the flag of our United States. And, in less than two weeks, we will celebrate July 4th, the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. We honor the men and women who served and are serving, as well as their families. Like a tapestry, our lives are … [Read more...]