Dad

LEON URBANSKI S1/c

Enlisted February 11, 1944, Great Lakes, Illinois, Had additional training A.T.B. Camp Bradford, Virginia, aboard LST #577, Served Headquarters 11th Naval District.

DECORATIONS:

Victory Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Area Campaign, Phillippine Liberation, American Area Campaign Medal, Purple Heart.

DISCHARGED: May 23, 1946

I never had the privilege of knowing my Dad He passed away on January 1, 1950 and I was born May 1, 1950.

I do know that he was loved and admired by all that knew him. A proud World War II veteran of the United States Navy. It weighed heavy on his heart to have been one of only a few that survived the sinking of the LST 577. He was haunted by the memories of those 166 young lives lost in a far away place called Leyte.

Dear Dad,

I never got to say hello or good-bye. I never got to hug, or kiss you ,or have you hold me when I cried. I never got to say how very proud I am of you and your service to our country.

Growing up without you was very hard and sad. All I had were stories told about you, and those memories I tucked away in my heart.

Though I could not see or touch you, I felt you were always near. I feel you have walked by my side, holding my hand, and helped to guide my life through the years.

I have never forgotten you Dad ! I'm here today ..... to pay tribute to your memory. I can't visit your grave it's too far away. But one day I'll see you, I wait for that day.

I hope you can see me and all that I do. I hope you are pleased and proud with the life that I choose. I don't think we're so far apart, for you are in my mind and your name is etched in my heart.

I hope you will recognize me, smile and greet me when I say, "Daddy I'm Home."

Love,

Your Daughter

Sharon