With Father’s Day coming up this Sunday I thought I would put into words just what my Father means to me.

My father is ex-Korean POW James Ball. He spent two and half years held captive by the Chinese in various prison camps during the Korean War. He was rescued in operation Little Switch and spent almost another two and half years in the Army hospital recuperating from the effects of being a POW TB, malaria, malnutrition, PTSD, etc.

Through all of this he harbored no ill feelings and managed to get on with his life. I tell everyone I was a lucky girl growing up because I grew up with a hero in my own home. Growing up I watched many injustices my Father went through fighting for his veteran rights, but no matter what he still maintained a wonderful attitude. Dad did not even receive his medals until he was in his 60s, a much needed recognition long overdue.

Over the years he taught me many things about veterans and life in general. First and foremost he taught me God & Country. I could not have asked for a better Christian representative, and to always stand up and hold your ground as an American and to protect our country’s honor. Dad is a wonderful example of a “Man of Honor and Integrity” which seems to be a dying breed in today’s world. He taught me to always do my best in every aspect of life and hold my head up high no matter how many times someone tries to knock you down and to strive for what other’s would say is impossible don’t give up.

He taught me awesome work ethics to work hard and long hours and how to be a good provider for my family. Dad taught me how to love unconditionally no matter what life threw in my path and to never beat myself down because if you done your best that is all that matters. He also taught me about giving back and being a volunteer first church and my community.

Dad has been serving others now for many years with and assisting them with their Veterans issues by being a VFW Commander now 14 years. One of the most important lessons Dad taught me is to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves. He has taught me to look fear right in the face while wearing a great big smile.

With Father’s Day this weekend I will not get the chance to spend the day with my father he will be out of town and I will be working at a Veteran’s event. So I would like to take the time to say Happy Father’s Day to my Dad and give him the recognition he so deserves.

“Because of my Father” I am what I am today a Veterans advocate. I have tried to put all the lessons in life he gave me to good use. So it with much love and respect that I salute you sir for all you have done for me and thank you for your service. It is because of you and the lessons and examples you have given me that I can better serve others.

 

Melinda Michael is the director of the Four Flags Area Council on Tourism.