Happy Veteran's Day!

 

Today I hope we will all take a moment to reflect upon what has made this country free. It is the men and women who have put their lives on the line, and in many cases, gave their lives for our freedom.

This past week has seen much strife between neighbors with differing views following a contentious election. 

However, men like my Daddy, pictured above, fought so that even those I vehemently disagree with could express their views. Unfortunately, many of those people do not believe those whose opinions differ from theirs should be allowed to speak.

My Daddy joined the Navy the day after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. He had several of his friends went down to the recruiters office to defend this country. He served aboard the USS Stanly in the Pacific Theater. 

And while he came home, unlike many who served, he lived with the memories of war for the rest of his life. He was indeed one of the greatest generation.

What saddens me is that what he fought for seems to be disappearing. Young people are taught a skewed history and one or two generations removed from the horrors seen in WWII. Even the tragedy of  9/11/2001 seems to have faded from most people's memories.

On this day, put aside your political bias, and take a moment to thank a vet or a serviceman or woman. They would die for you, even if they don't agree with you. Can you say the same?