Honoring those who served their country

Editor's note: On Memorial Day seven years ago, a 27-year-old Las Vegas man sent his grandfather, Walter Clutts, a note. We produce it here, in honor of Veterans Day.

Dear Grandpa:

Over the last several years I have done a considerable amount of reading and allowed myself to watch many documentaries on the history of World War II and I will never be able to comprehend the magnitude of this war, nor its impact on your lives and the lives of millions of other Americans during this time.

As a young man growing up in a generation which consists of many men and women who appear to have little if any direction, I am honored to have you in my life and to have spent many hours with you explaining to me what it is like to be an American and a man. I cannot imagine the fear you must have had when your country asked you to sacrifice your life, to protect the lives of Americans forever.

As each Memorial Day has come and passed, I have struggled with the right way of how to simply tell you thank you. I am not sure what I can do in this world to make life the way it was when you were growing up, other than to simply remember what you have taught me and try to convey that message to my children, as well as those around me.

I know it has been difficult at times for you to explain to me what you have been through, but I want you to understand that although I do not know the whole story, the chapters you have left me with will remain with me forever. I have always wanted to tell you how much I appreciate what you have done for our country and our family, but I could never find the right words or time to tell you in person.

So as this 27th day of May 2002 ends and another year passes before our country seeks to remember those that have given everything for what we have, I want you to remember every day that I have not forgotten that you are a veteran and never will.

I am honored to be your grandson and love you very much.

BRYCE RICHARD CLUTTS

LAS VEGAS