In Memoriam

IN MEMORIAM

GILBERT LEROY CARLSON
September 2, 1933 - March 24, 2008

Last week, God was merciful and allowed my father to be in His presence. One week later, I remembered his military service during his memorial. The following is the text....

The Distinction of My Father

By Sharen Ruth Carlson Munger

This is the time for me to tell you about my father’s distinct service for our country. When Dad married Nancy, his military career was coming to a close. He had faithfully served since 1952 in either active or reserve duty, and by 1985, he was ready to close this chapter of his life. However, his patriotism continued strong for the 30 + years following his retirement. You see, for Dad, service to country is part of who you are. It’s being proud to live in our country, even though you know it’s not perfect. It’s respecting authority, working hard, improving yourself through education, and always putting your best foot forward. It’s having pride in what you do, no matter what the task. He first learned this at home. I remember the countless times being told how proud my grandfather, an immigrant from Sweden, was to serve in the Navy during WWI, how they made it through the Depression together, as an extended family.

Dad didn’t make a big deal about serving during the Korean War on the USS Shangri-La. It was just what you did. For me, growing up, his military service was simple. One weekend a month, and two weeks during the year, Dad would pack his uniform and supplies, and head off for duty. This meant, of course, that I got to sleep in the big bed with Mom. It was no big deal that Dad was in the Reserves. He made sure I knew how to fold a flag correctly, and obsessed over the importance of Memorial Day, Flag Day, The Fourth of July, Veteran’s Day. These were not times I could be like any other child and just have a day off of school and go to a picnic. Dad made sure I understood the significance of each day. I grew up with patriotism lived inside my household. There were parades, pancake breakfasts, speeches…all for a reason. And don’t forget the flag, so proudly displayed at the front of our house during a time other people were burning theirs.

Dad distinguished himself with his commanding officers as well. Listen to this report:

"ABF1 Gilbert L. Carlson has provided his country with over 26 years of outstanding service. Since he enlisted in the United States Navy on 3 June 1952, he has attended numerous schools, including the Petty Officer Academy in which he was the top student. Petty Officer Carlson has servced aboard the Aircraft Carrier USS Shangri-La, with several Naval Air Stations and in various squadrons. In 1973, he was selected as the Sailor of the Year for his unit. While leader of the Unit Color Guard, his team was designated the top Color Guard Unit at NAS Glenview.

Many individuals have had their careers enhanced and more fully rewarded as a result of the fine counseling they have received from Petty Officer Carlson. He has served as the Unit Career Counselor in all of his units since 1971. Petty Officer Carlson has capped his naval career by being the first recipient of the Robert I. Barto Trophy. This trophy is awarded to the numbre one air reserve reinforcing unit in the Naval Reserve.

This is the fifth letter of commendation that he has received from a Commanding Officer during his lengthy career. "Well Done". May you have "fair winds and following seas" as you leave the Naval Reserve."

These past few days, as I have contemplated what in the world I could say to express the impact Dad has made on my life, the task has seemed insurmountable. And yet, as I reflect on what my father has molded into me through the example of his life, it boils down to this:

It IS important how you present yourself to others. Continual education and hard work will serve not just yourself but others as well. Respect for God, parents, authorities, country, uniform, flag is uncompromising. I have a better understanding of why Dad stayed in the Naval Reserves for 30 years now than I did as a young girl. He served as a Career Counselor most of that time. He instilled a philosophy of service with each personnel member who crossed his path. However, the person he taught best was myself.

On the civilian side, there were other equally important things I learned from Dad: The difference between a touchdown and 1^st down, especially at the home games of NU. Vince Avalleni really was a horrible quarterback for the Bears in the 70’s. Being a Cubs fan is ALWAYS about “next year”.

Some things you might not know about him: He loved the Muppet Show on Saturday nights. He hid underneath the porch of his house for three weeks in kindergarten while skipping school. He would fill a serving bowl with Cheerios and milk to eat before going to bed most nights. My g’ma could dress him in white from head to toe as a young boy, send him out to play for the day, and he would come home spotlessly clean. He loved photography, and in fact, if anyone is interested in watching the 1971 Rose Parade, I happen to have a copy on 8mm. When I was in junior high, he changed his work schedule to an earlier start and finish so he could spend as much time with me after school and go watch basketball games I cheered in, or help me with homework, or whatever might be needed.

I always knew how proud he was of me, even when I failed. He doted on me, and gave me the security to step out on my own, always confident of his unwavering support. I recently read this Irish proverb, and immediately thought of Dad:

“May God bless you with enough foolishness

To believe that you can make a difference in the world

So that you can do what others claim cannot be done

To bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.”

Dad made a difference, and he served not just his country but also those he knew, with distinction.