Veteran's Day 2016

We awake this Veteran's Day to honor those who served but we cannot overlook the divided country, still in turmoil after the historic election of a non-career politician. The national government is under-represented by veterans, more so than any other time in this country. However, there is light ahead. I believe many more Vets, either retiring from active duty or leaving service before they accrue a pension, will step forward and continue to serve in legislative or executive positions at the local, state or federal level. Missouri elected Eric Greitens a retired Navy SEAL as Governor. Ryan Zinke, another retired SEAL, will continue to serve as a Senator from Montana. I believe many more will step forward,...God knows we need them,......and they will do so not from the standpoint of beginning a new career, but from a deep felt obligation to continue to serve. Isaiah 6:8, 'And I heard the voice of the Lord saying', “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.”

As another veteran, friend and unabashed patriot, KC Caulder, wrote:

As we, as a nation, go about our day, on this Veteran's Day (November 11th) please remember one thing: Someone laid down their life to make it possible for you to be FREE.

No matter how you try, those that have never been away from family for any extended period of time, you cannot understand what it is like to say goodbye not knowing when, or if, you will see each other again. Or, will your kids forget who you are while you're gone.

No matter how hard you try, those that have never been a military wife/husband, you cannot understand what it is like to stand alone with all the responsibilities of home. And, also wonder will I ever see my soldier alive once more?

No matter how you try, those that have never been on a battlefield, you cannot understand the fear, courage, fortitude, and determination it takes to face the enemy knowing he wants to kill you and say no I won't let him.

No matter how hard you try, those that have never stood before a flag draped coffin, you cannot understand the sorrow, pain, anguish, and yes, pride that comes by knowing he/she is gone but they left me for duty, honor, and country.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt said it best, "Those that have long enjoyed the privileges as we enjoy forget in time that men have died to win them."

No matter how hard you try, don't go through this sacred day without stopping, thanking God, and thanking the men and women who stood in the gap and laid down their lives so you could be FREE.

A veteran is someone, who at one point in their life, wrote a blank check, payable to the United States of America for an amount up to, and including, their life. That is beyond honor, and there are way too many people in this country who no longer remember that fact.