Originally Posted by sat4314

Just needed to say hello. A lot still going on with my Dad's burial arrangements. Mom and I have been discussing it the last couple days. Mom tells me that Dad would not want a big fuss made over his burial. His will states that he is to be cremated with 1/2 of his ashes buried in Arlington National Cemetery and the rest spread in the ocean in Daytona, Florida. Mom tells me that he told her he would be happiest if his ashes were all spread in the tide of the ocean. His will is a couple years old and we are debating what he verbally said as opposed to how the will reads. Mom is the executor, and it is her decision as I would never contest anything. What Mom told me made me remember something Dad mentioned to me when we were at Arlington for Wreathes Across America not too long ago. We made it a point that day to lay our four wreathes on the graves of Viet Nam veterans. Each time we did, we stepped back and said their names out loud. My Dad told me that we all die twice. Once when your body dies and again when no one speaks your name again. He also told me that day, that too many people want to thank the veterans now, but never did so when they first came home many years ago. Dad loved going to breakfast at Denny's with the senior discount for pancakes. I can't begin to tell you how many times Dad would spot an elderly gentleman wearing a world war two veterans hat. They were usually always with their family, Dad would always walk over to their table and shake their hand and thank them for their service. He then always made it a point to pay for their bill for breakfast before we left. Not sure what we are going to do just yet. There is a wait for the burial at ANC right now. If it is decided that we take him to Florida, I will always say his name and my son will do the same. Once a decision is made, we will update all of you. My motorcycle riding class will begin in April at a local dealership so I can get my motorcycle endorsement. I do want to ride his bike and his best friend Howard said I should have a couple of his ashes put in a bell to hang on it, so he would be riding with me. Have to stop now as this is becoming a book as opposed to a "post". I just really needed to share my emotions with you. God bless you all and as Dad would say " wish you warm sunny days and a good ride. Thank you for your support,