Editor’s note: The following letter was written by John Holst, formerly of Austin who now lives in Baltimore, Md., as a special salute to his grandfather, Harold Holst, a resident at the Good Samaritan Center in Albert Lea. His grandfather was part of a Southeast Minnesota Honor Flight on Oct. 8 that went to Washington, D.C., to visit the nation’s World War II Memorial.

To: Seaman Harold Holst

From: Lt. Cmdr. John Holst

As a naval officer, I would like to take a moment to write you this letter, Seaman Harold Hoist. Over 70 years ago, you and your fellow sailors gave everything they could to support this country during the most decisive war this world has ever seen. As young men, you defended this country with great courage, honor and commitment. Some of your fellow sailors gave the ultimate sacrifice and didn’t get to come home to their families nor a hero’s welcome. This country owes you and your fellow servicemen an enormous debt of gratitude that can never be truly repaid. As you are surrounded by the World War II Memorial at this time with your fellow living World War II veterans, I can only hope you feel proud that this country never forgot your sacrifice and feel a sense of awe on what this memorial really means to your fellow veterans and to this country, which you helped personally shape.

As a grandson, I’ve never been more proud of your commitment and sacrifice, inspiring me to join the Unites States Navy as you had done so many years before. Even though I never got to take part in shaping the world in such a battle as you did, thank God. I can now understand the patriotic pride one receives when giving of himself to his country for a greater good. The path I’ve taken in my career and in life, I can honestly say was shaped by your commitment to God and to this country. I feel I lived or experienced some of your moments along side you, particularly as it pertained to the war, while listening to your life stories on your living room floor while growing up. I wanted to take this moment and personally say thank you to you and your fellow World War II veterans.

Lastly, I do regret the fact that I could not be in Washington, D.C., on Veterans Day with you and your fellow servicemen, but know I’m thinking about you right this moment. I love and miss you very much. Again, you demonstrate your bravery in making such an arduous journey at this point in your life, as you did over 70 years ago. I’m not able to shake your hand in gratitude today for your service to this country and in shaping my life, but please take this picture as a symbol of my gratitude from a naval officer and more importantly as an honored grandson, I salute you!

 

John M. Holst

lieutenant commander

U.S. Navy

Baltimore