A Military Career in 12 Minutes... OK 13

My 90 year old Father was asked to give a 12 minute sermon this past Friday night to his congregation in Arkansas regarding his participation in the armed forces. Since Natureman and I weren't there, we asked him if he would retell us the same story on Memorial Day.

My Dad attributes his critical/ important decisions based on life experiences and relationships crediting loving parents and close relatives who altho financially burdened, encouraged his educational pursuits.  Born in Brooklyn, N.Y. he was exposed to a diversity of friendships of different religions, skin color and backgrounds. Diversity and 'not tolerance of' helped frame many aspects of his life. 
Attending the oldest high school Erasmus High, he received probably the best education one could have at that time with very high standards and a program called "rapid advance". His top drawer filled with awarded "well done" buttons and his dedication allowed him to finish high school early at age 16. Completion of high standards and regents between city schools placed him in the top 10 % and eligible for a 5 day examination to gain free entrance into Brooklyn College. Testing in the top 3% he enrolled in 3 college science classes.  Since the U.S. was already at war with Germany and it was after Pearl Harbor, one night on a campout with buddies they made a pact to join the armed forces.  

My Dad as a little boy, his father and grandmother

The enlistment age was 18 so his parents had to give their permission even though they were informed that actually he could defer being an only child and also in college at the time. But my grandparents concurred due to their parents' immigration and appreciation to their new homeland.  

So my Dad began his apprenticeship with 26,000 other men as they went through rigorous academic and physical training. 36 were chosen to continue in officer training school where he went to Brown University, then onto a 4 month course at Notre Dame and more intensive physical and academic demands with 800/1200 passing. 

Lieutenant Commander Jerry Sherman

These opportunities afforded my Dad through scholarships, the GI bill and second and third part time jobs to attend 5 institutions of higher learning besides those mentioned, Case Western Reserve and U of Iowa. As the war ended in Sea of Japan on August 14 VJ day, his birthday,  Lieutenant Commander Sherman was in charge of 40 men even though he was the youngest.  

In the conclusion of the sermon my Dad expressed appreciation of his military training and  opportunities and if the need arose again and a 90 year old man could be useful, he would't hesitate to enlist. 

Memorial Day is a day to honor the men and women who have served our country and maybe, just maybe learn more about their sacrifices. This Memorial Day definitely was more personal for us here in the End of the Rainbow Valley.