I forgot to tell you about last weekend. First we went to the zoo, but you've heard a lot about the zoo! Afterward, we drove up to Punchbowl National Cemetery. Punchbowl is in the middle of Puowaina crater (an extinct volcano). I'm sure that many of you have been to or seen pictures of Arlington National Cemetery and all of the white headstones that go on forever. Punchbowl is more of a memorial garden. All of the headstones are flush with the ground so you don't see anything sticking up from the ground. It was so beautiful and quiet. At the back of the cemetery are steps that lead up to the main memorial (with mosaic maps of battles of WWII) and chapel. Along the steps on each side are walls covered with names of soldiers who never came home. At the base of the steps is a plaque that reads, "In these gardens are recorded the names of Americans who gave their lives in the service of their country and whose earthly resting place is known only to God". It was so moving seeing all of those names and remembering just how many people have sacrificed so that we can live in this great country. One other thing that moved me was the gravesite of two brothers. One died in WWII, the other came home and lived for 45 more years. I can't imagine losing my brother or sister so tragically and living that long without them.
I thank God for those who have served and sacrificed and for those who are currently serving to keep this country the greatest in the world.
Try these other links as well:
Punchbowl 1
Punchbowl 2
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