War on the Home Front

On Memorial Day it's customary to Bar B Que, Listen to patriotic music, hang out the flag and to remember those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. But it wasn't just the boys overseas that pitched in against a common enemy. Here at home we did our part too. Vital commodities were rationed, Sugar, Gasoline, Coffee, etc. Victory Gardens were planted, people car pooled instead of driving alone and in every small town and major city factories geared up for War production.

Up near Amboy is one such factory, dedicated to the war effort, but now silent and deserted. It's buildings are shuttered, windows broken out, and only the tractors now drive past what were once closely guarded installations. I'm referring of course to the Green River Ordinance plant.

Recently I went back to revisit that area with my Lil' Sidekick Nick and Tom Anderson. We thoroughly explored the area and discovered Bataan road, Corrigedor road, Subic road, etc. All names you surely recognize from the Philippine islands. We found warehouses still sturdy and strong, earth covered ammunition bunkers still waiting to receive explosives and an administration building that looks ready to be used with just some minor repairs.

Men and women from all over the county were bused in, road the train in, drove in to 'Do their Part' to help America against a cunning foe and to avenge a sneak attack against our military forces.

I'd like to note that most of these structures are now on Private land with No Trespassing signs posted prominently. All of the photographs were taken from public roads.

So today when you're grilling your burgers and having your parties take a moment to reflect on what the True meaning of Memorial Day is. And never forget that Others sacrificed so you wouldn't have to. God Bless America.