Saturday 9 for Memorial Day......

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

Memorial Day is the federal holiday designated to honor American service people who died in battle.

1) Here at Saturday 9, we regard everyone who served -- veterans and active military -- as heroes. Have you, or has anyone in your family, worn the uniform of our armed forces? We want to hear about them.

Lots of my cousins, most of my uncles (both maternal and fraternal) , and my father and brother have all served.  

My maternal grandfather was a merchant marine during the first world war.  Merchant marines suffered very heavy losses, more per capita, than any other service. They were what helped to keep Europe from being crushed by supplying food and munitions to them during that war. I didn't get to talk to my Grandpa about it but my mother told me some stuff.  

I, myself, haven't had the honor.  I did choose a service - Air Force - and I took all their tests.  They really , really wanted me to join, but wouldn't yet allow women to fly jets. So, I went on to "greater glory" as a "Domestic Engineer". 😉

2) Memorial Day has its own flag etiquette. In the morning, the American flag should be flown at half staff in memory of those we have lost. Then, at noon, it should be raised briskly to full staff, in honor of all who have served. Where is the nearest flag flying from where you sit right now?  

That would be at the Post office which is a few blocks away.  I don't think anyone puts out a flag anymore around here.  The next door neighbor's widow may still fly one.  I have a 5.5 by 9.5 but don't fly it.  

3) Since 1988, motorcycle riders have participated in Rolling Thunder. In events all over the country, including Washington DC, bikers "Roll Together" to draw attention to service members still missing and raise awareness of mental health issues our veterans cope with each day. When have you most recently ridden a motorcycle? A scooter? A bicycle?  

That would be my ten speed bike, 20 or so years ago, unless you count the more recent stationary bike at the gym.  Even that was several years ago now.  Boy do I miss bike riding!  It was loads of fun. My uncle had a Harley. He gave me rides now and then.

4) This week's song is the title track of Billy Ray Cyrus' best-selling album. Named for this patriotic song, the album also included Billy Ray's signature song, "Achy Breaky Heart." "Achy Breaky Heart" is a popular choice on karaoke nights. Do you know it well enough to sing along?  

Yes.  And, I've always loved it... and the energy in it.  

5) Sandy Kane, the hero of "Some Gave All," is based on a real Vietnam vet Billy Ray Cyrus met and spoke to about his sacrifice for his country. Can you think of another song based on a real person?  

Yes, Eric Clapton's "Layla" though, believe me, I can hardly wait for the keyboard to cut in now.  I have very OLD ears!  I love that song!

6) Memorial Day is the traditional kick off of the summer season. Have you packed away your winter clothes yet?  

We don't have seasonal clothes especially since, as my Turkish friend put it one year, "You live in Winterless California and have no idea what Winter is really like."  We do wear down jackets when the temperature goes below 65, and, when the kids were small, we did buy ski stuff.  But the kids, they are like snowmen.  They think anything over 65 is sweltering.  They've all become acclimatized to Northern California.  That is a whole "other country", Northern (Central Coast) Cal. 

7) As you answer these questions, is there a fan or an air conditioner cooling your room? 

No, just the fan inside the PC Tower because it is a very cool May.  It's rained a bit, and "clizzled" for three days.  

8) Memorial Day is also a holiday for retailers. Ads promise great prices on everything from grills to lawn decorations to high tech gear and gadgets. Will you be shopping any sales this weekend? 

Most likely not... and Hubby just concurred.

Random question: When is the last time you felt like a kid? 

Just a few days ago.  I learned that it's not uncommon for old people to be kids inside even if they are unable to leap up and and click their heels together anymore.  That means that we get to go ahead and have that second childhood.  

Thank you Sam!  

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