Sacrifice

By now in the day grills have been snuffed out, pools are closing for the evening and kids are scratching at mosquito bites.  While we have unofficially kicked off the summer season, today is a day we are encouraged to remember those that have lived and died in order that we can freely grill dogs and spit watermelon seeds.  We honor those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Grandfathers that freely joined Uncle Sam's Army to head to Germany or Japan.  Uncles that against their will went to a no win situation in Vietnam.  Dad's that served in the deserts and dry lands.  Friends who fly over foreign lands with pictures of their children mounted in the cockpit of a $150 million aircraft.  Today is about you!

I don't like to make my bed or press a crease in my pants.  I like to run, but not at 5 AM.  I  like where I live and don't feel like being "stationed" some where else.  So to all of you that make your bed so tight a quarter bounces off it .  To the ones that where fatigues or dress blues.  To SEALs and Berets.  To Cadets and Midshipmen (and Midshipwomen), simply Thank You!  Thank you for the courage you show us everyday.  Thank you for steady hands and ever marching feet.  Thank you for giving when there is nothing left in you to give.

To those that will never have the opportunity to read these words because you sacrificed at the highest cost for our country and for the prized idea and belief of freedom - may God bless the families you have have been left behind.

From a guy grateful, who could never do what you fine men and women do,
God Bless