It wasn’t until after his death, in 2003, that my brothers and I learned of our father’s bravery and courage in World War II.

Philip B. “Larry” Larimore, Jr., fought in Italy, France, and Germany, before losing his leg – and almost his life.

Awarded three Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars, two Silver Stars, and the Distinguished Service Cross, he ended his service as the Executive Officer for the Honor Garrison at Arlington Cemetery and Ft. Myers.

I remember the admiration my dad had for President Ronald Reagan and how much my dad appreciated a speech the President delivered at Pointe du Hoc, France, where U.S. Rangers fought an incredible battle to reclaim Europe from the evil of fascism.