If I ask you to think about ribbons, it is very likely you will recall the brightly colored bits of silk that we weave through a child’s hair. Or perhaps you will reflect on the ribbons we wrap around the treasures and gifts we give each other to celebrate special events. Ribbons symbolize and highlight things delicate and precious. We use the word to describe creeks and moonlight and love.
A different kind of ribbon has been on my mind this week. I have been reflecting on the ribbons that service members wear on their uniforms. More than just pretty colors, these ribbons always tell a story. From bottom to top these ribbons document the mundane and the heroic. While these ribbons may be worn proudly by one person, to the discerning observer each ribbon speaks of selfless service to ideals invariably larger than any single life.
When my father passed away, we buried him at Willamette National Cemetery in the only suit that mattered to him, his Air Force uniform. Though I think of him as a crusty old coot, he was actually younger than I am now when he died. As we prepared to seal his casket, my mother asked me to retrieve something from him. His ribbons of service. She keeps them safely tucked away. Reminders of a life dedicated to the service of his country spanning the period from the Korean conflict to Vietnam.
A few years ago, the youth pastor at our church suddenly died of a heart attack while leading our high school youth group on a service tour in New Orleans after hurricane Katrina. Knowing that he had been an Air National Guard non-commissioned officer (NCO), my wife and I built a “shadow box” of memorabilia from his time of service. It contained the flag that draped his casket, patches that he had worn on his uniform, chevrons of the ranks he held, and his service ribbons. Puzzled by some of the unfamiliar ribbons that are unique to the Guard and wanting to make sure that they were properly arranged, I visited his old units at Portland Air National Guard Base to find out the stories behind the ribbons. The story that unfolded was not of unsung acts of heroism, but one of simple dedication to a mission. He was one among many that together wove a ribbon of veteran service to a country he loved.
Next month I get to put on my own set of ribbons and a uniform I have not worn in 15 years to administer the oath of commissioning to our oldest son. Proudly, and probably a little tearfully, my wife and I will welcome him to the ranks of veterans who have served. He will begin building his own collection of ribbons, his own precious story.
Today, let’s think about ribbons. And to those of you who have built your own little collection or know someone who has, thank you for your service.
