To my American brothers & sister, and all Free people of this planet,
Take a moment on this day and stand in Honor of those great American citizens that have served, or are now serving, in the blessed cause of Liberty for All.
A few thoughts for you:
- Remember that the American Armed Forces are all volunteers. These brave souls are freely offering their time, sweat, and their very lives to guarantee your Freedom
- Remember all of those that have given all to preserve our American Freedoms and to break the chains of those in slavery to despots worldwide.
- Remember those that have come home maimed of body or mind in the service to their Country. Visit your nearest VA Hospital. It will not hurt you to volunteer just a little of your time. Besides, what you will see there will swell your heart with pride – and break your heart.
- Remember to thank each American Veteran you meet in your daily travels. Go ahead, make an unexpected phone call to those Veterans you know and simply say “Thank you”. You will feel better – and so will they!
- Remember on this day, if no other, to shake the hand of every service member you see in uniform today and thank them for their service. (I make a point to do this every day. You’d be surprised how many times I’ve seen tears form in the eyes of those proud Heroes at this simple act of Honor.)
Right here would be a great spot for some great, quotable line. I have nothing to offer, for I am but a simple man. All I can add is that every night when my head meets pillow I think of those whose heads are then meeting a helmet instead, and every morning when I meet the dawn I give thought to those that will that day meet the needs of Freedom. And I am filled with both awe and pride at their bravery. They all make me so very grateful that I was born an American.
Semper Vigilo, Semper Libero!
Bull, out.
BTW: If anyone wants to know, that photo was taken by the subject himself, MA1 A. LaFrenier, USNR. He\’s a damned good photographer as well as a fine young sailor and police officer in civilian life.