Today, this post is about a special group of people. No sales pitch, just our gratitude!
The American flag waving in the breeze!
Soul-stirring music and videos that grab the heart.
Walking past the window display of US military recruiting offices.
Videos of soldiers arriving back home to surprise their loved ones.
Pride in my brothers, my grandpas, my uncle, my father-in-law, and my stepdad for having served honorably in the military for the United States.
These are just some of the things that I appreciate about Veteran’s Day. Here in America, we remember those who have died on Memorial Day at the end of May each year. On November 11 though, we remember ALL who have faithfully served or are currently serving.
Freedom is NEVER free and everything has a price. Some had to pay the ultimate price with their lives and are even buried on foreign soil far from their homes and their loved ones.
Why do we get to enjoy these things here in America?
Because of our Veterans!
You were willing to go to those other countries and face conflicts that you could not imagine. You were willing to put on a uniform that is hated by many, including the people you were called to protect. You were willing to sign on the line that says, “I hereby promise to protect America and her people, even if it means giving my life.”
You were willing to say goodbye to your wife, your husband, your children, or your parents and give them the promise through your tears and theirs that you would be back! You had no guarantee you would be back, but you said it anyway. We listened to the promise and prayed fervently for that promise to be fulfilled.
Our hearts wept for the loss of each family when another planeload of caskets landed back in America, but we stood to attention whenever we saw the American draped casket that reminded us that one more veteran was being laid to rest. One more veteran who was a hero in the hearts of family and those who know and understand what honor and integrity means.
America, when you go out today and see that veteran at the restaurant, do them a favor. Square your shoulders, step up and with a hug or a firm handshake, thank them for what they did on our behalf. They will normally respond with the answer they are taught to give, “Thank you for your support.”
But don’t stop there.
Pause to get their attention and tell them again, “No, thank you is not enough, but it is the least that you deserve for being willing to put it all on the line for people like me that you do not know!”
Happy Veteran’s Day and a special THANK YOU from your friends at RE/MAX Capitol Properties!
