'Can Do', the motto of the 15th Infantry Division. I didn't recognize the buttons on dad's jacket until recently, but they quickly brought to mind a reference dad used to use. On identifying someone he liked, he would refer to him as a "can do kinda guy." By this he meant one with a particularly high degree of self reliance and self confidence, someone that would keep going no what matter the odds. He must have formalized his feelings during the war:

It was this 'can-do' philosophy that contributed to my own sense of independence after my graduation from high school. The transition was more gradual than a dramatic break but by the end of my freshman year in college, my parents were no longer part of my personal decision process. Major decisions I made after that point were made independent of their consul. The results of which were, at times, not even shared with them.

Sometimes, I regret my misinterpretation of the concept. And in retrospect, I realized the value of including them in discussion and reevaluated that concept once I had children of my own. It's unwise not to consider the opinions of one's parents regarding the rearing of children. Neither is it appropriate to ask exactly what to do which would give them the responsibility for decisions. What is best is to search out their recommendations and temper them with one's own ideas and then form your own conclusions.

My basic philosophy still continues to endorse a concept of 'Can-Do' today. That's really what got me going on this project in the first place. Most projects of this sort, however, should be pursued within the context of one's family for assistance and support. Therefore, plans are in place to institute an annual 'Can-Do' award in honor of my father. It will be awarded for the most deserving project planned and completed by a member of the Haggerty extended family. The details of which will be forthcoming.