My Father would have been 91 years old today. He passed a few years back and my Mother gave me his ring. It is ironic, being that I am a Quaker, that this tiger eye ring features a Roman soldier. These rings were popular back in the 1940s. My Father was a soldier. He served in the Marines, Navy and Army through World War II and after.
For me this ring signifies sacrifice. He was willing to put his life on the line to safeguard the world that he lived in. We all live in our times and make choices about our lives in that context. Who is to say that I would not have done what he did given his circumstances?
When I wear this ring I have to consider what sacrifices I am willing to make to safeguard the world that I live in today? A different world…political extremism, climate change, a host of problems. I can do my small part to make the world a better place. This ring reminds me of that. Happy birthday Dad.
Roger Vincent Jasaitis 
We used your Dad’s WWII foot lockers throughout our musical career as The Pinch for our cables, microphones, etc., I guess it’s my age, but I don’t remember where they went, when, or how, but I do remember having them up in my attic for 30-years, or so. I sort of remember a communication between us about them, but that is about all. Did they become victims of Super Storm Sandy? I really don’t remember.
That hand, pictured, with the ring, is one of a life-long friend . . . a brother. One I remember from 5th grade at Emma Havens Young School in Brick Township, NJ, that pitched me “Kick-Ball” pitches, one that, through the years I shook, and one that created beautiful works of art, contributed musical compositions to songs I brought to the fold and one that continues to be a solid force of life, love, art and friendship. A Brother’s Hand, is what I would name that snapshot. Thanks for being a part of my most beloved memories, and being who you “Still” are in my life . . . thank you Roger, thank you Mr. & Mrs. Jasaitis for the gift of your son in my life too!
Dear, dear George, You have promped many memories. Yes those foot lockers were my Fathers from his military days. One detail about them that you didn’t mention was the paper cutout “pinup girls” that were pasted to the lids on the inside. Boys will be boys, he was 18 when he enlisted. Boys always fight wars. Thank you for your kind words, you are a true friend.