There has never been a time in history when peace wasn’t preceded by military victory. Our own history shows this without exception, including our birth.
My profound respect for those who have risked all, sometimes paying all to secure or defend our freedom is deep and emotional.
If everyone would adapt what was taught to me by my Uncle Dick, a retired fighter pilot and Air Force Colonel, the younger generations will take notice.
Without exception whenever I’m made aware of active or retired military in my presence, I thank them for their service, as unobtrusively as possible. That simple act has produced moments for which I wouldn’t trade love or money.
Knowing they’re appreciated is priceless.
While working out with my son the other day, he said hi to a guy walking by. I gave him a puzzled look, and he said, “Dad, that’s Forest. He just returned from his second tour of Iraq.”
I had the pleasure to have coached Forest in baseball when he was 13-14. Looking into his eyes, as he recognized me walking over to him, I could see the man, the soldier he’d become. Becoming somewhat emotional, I said hi, looked him in the eye, and thanked him for his service. His smile made my week.
We’re living in what the Chinese sometimes refer to as interesting times. True enough.
We’re living in safer times because of soldiers like Uncle Dick and Forest.
To our veterans and active military everywhere — we will be forever grateful for your service. God bless you all.
Related posts:
About BawldGuy
Jeff, Amen. I had a sweet experience today. I was behind an SUV when I noticed “Proud Mom of three soldiers, one army and two marines”
I was so moved at a Mom with this kind of attitude of not one but THREE sons at risk, that I pulled up along side of her at a traffic light and gave her three thumbs up. She understood right away and rolled down her window to thank me….thank me for thanking her.
I then said, “Bless all of your sons…may they always be safe”.
She said, “yes” and there were tears in her eyes. “thank you so much” she said. “We need your support”.
I still get teary eyed thinking of the sacrifice so many are making.
Sure, I have reservations about war, but I try to put that aside. These people need to know that we are behind them.
Your experience I’m sure, is being repeated all over the country on a daily basis.
It is the soldier, not the reporter, Who has given us freedom of the press.
It is the soldier, not the poet, Who has given us freedom of speech.
It is the soldier, not the organizer, Who has given us the freedom to demonstrate.
It is the soldier, Who salutes the flag, Who serves beneath the flag,
And whose coffin is draped by the flag, Who allows the protestor to burn the flag.
- Father Dennis Edward O’Brian, USMC
Pretty hard to top that.
Jeff,
If you want to read a great book about our military heroes and the worst day in Navy Seals history…Lone Survivor: The Eyewitness Account of Operation Redwing and the Lost Heroes of SEAL Team 10 by Marcus Luttrell. The families of two of the men who died used that tragedy to create a lasting memorial to those in the military who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. The Cupertino Veterans Memorial was dedicated yesterday. One of those speaking was the Secretary of the Navy, Donald Winter.
Very cool story Jeff! I also try to thank anyone I know who’s fought for our freedom.
I hope if anything comes from this present war, it will be that we as a country re institute our respect of these hero’s.