Temple — For Capt. George Bailey, it was a normal Saturday surrounded by family.
Bailey, who recently turned 86, joined the U.S. Marine Corps immediately after high school and served for 30 years.
In that time, he went around the world, including to Vietnam and Korea. Now, decades later, he doesn't reflect.
"I don't look back anymore," Bailey said. "I have some nightmares, sometimes, but you know, everybody does."
His son, Geoffery, added, "It's the ultimate sacrifice to do something that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
Growing up, Geoffery said they never talked about his dad's time in conflict. So, there is plenty he just doesn't know about his dad's deployments.
"It's not something I've been privy to," Geoffery said.
On this Saturday, those trying times were recognized. The Texas Patriot Piece Makers awarded Capt. Bailey a Quilt of Valor.
His family looked on and each face in the room bore a smile.
So as he spends his days remembering the positives from his service and his family, he'll continue sharing lessons with his kids and grandkids.
Lessons, many would love to hear.
"To be brave and accept whatever is going to go down. You've just got to understand."