Over the years, books and articles have been written about the "greatest generation" and it’s many heroes. As those who made it "great" age and pass on, today’s generation (including those represented by today’s St. Gertrude parishioners!) will assume the mantle of leadership for the next generation — our children and grandchildren — to never forget their sacrifice nor the freedoms we enjoy thanks to them. So, I ask for your prayers and thanks as we prepare to remember and celebrate the lives and memories of those heroes who answered our nation’s call to serve on the beaches, in the jungles, and across the deserts they fought or patrolled in. Many returned … many did not. In our parish, perhaps unnoticed by many, there has been a tribute to past and current service personnel taped to the concrete wall on your left as you enter the church from the parish center. Some of the names and ink have faded over time, but the memories for those loved ones cherished by their family members has not. That list was updated recently, but it is certainly not complete nor 100 percent accurate. There is also a list of new "heroes" in the bulletin who are currently serving our country. From May 21-28, our parish will honor those who served and did not come home, as well as their families. We will also recognize those who are serving today. There will be a display near the altar all week: a Book of Remembrance, a candle, a folded flag, and an as complete list of service members, past and present, as we have. Please take a moment to write the name of a family member or friend and offer a special prayer for these heroes, their families and our country. To keep our records accurate, please email Jeff Plate at stewardship@stgertrude.org or Jane Butschie at jbutschie@cinci.rr.com by May 23rd and we will add them to the "Remembrance Board" and our database.