Father Dennis Edward OBrien, USMC, once said, 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 gave 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 protester to burn the flag. This recognition is very important, but JFK was keen to point out that “as we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” Today is a day where we may honor all those brave men and women upon whose shoulders we stand--whose shoulders this country was built upon. Dont let this momentous occasion once a year be the end of your gratitude. Dont let one brief status update be the extent of your appreciation. Whether you are for or against the President, the operations of United States of America, or conflict in general, you cannot deny the sacrifice our fellow citizens who have taken up the uniform are giving every day. When you see a soldier on the street dont be afraid to approach him or her with a warm handshake and give thanks for his or her service. When you drive past a VFW hall or an American Legion dont be afraid to stop in and buy a round of drinks. Share a round of stories with these men and women. It is crucial that we connect with our fellow Americans in such a manner. Dont be afraid to attend a soldiers homecoming and develop a deeper connection with your community. Take time to visit memorials for our fallen and reflect on the many things in life you are grateful for--Im sure all those who now rest at the wall would love your company. All gave some, some gave all, and some are still giving, my friends. Thank you to all who have served and continue to serve. Support our troops and their families! God bless.
Posted on: Tue, 11 Nov 2014 13:12:32 +0000
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