stevew's Journal: Memorial Day 2005

I haven't posted in this journal for around a year. It's memorial day 2005 and that effects me quite emotionally. I've seen a couple of poignant reports on ABC. The first was about a small town in Vermont that has sent a large number of their sons/dads/daughters to Iraq through their commitment to the National Guard. They are representative of the 0.5 percent of our population that steps forward to stand on that wall and protect our freedoms. They leave loved ones, jobs, and daily responsibilities to do their part in what their nation has decided is it's proper course.

You can disagree with whether we should be in Iraq, whether Mr. Bush has been a wise leader, or any other such doubts - but PLEASE don't dishonor these brave people who are willing to give their lives in defense of the rest of us. They are merely going where they have been told to by their Commander and Chief.

These people ARE dying for you. Do you understand what that means? They aren't just signing up anymore for a better college education or some way to get a few more dollars in their paycheck at the end of the month. They are honoring the other side of that coin, i.e. leaving home and hearth to go where they have been told and do their assigned duties. Are you willing to do this? Every day we loose 2 to 3 of these brave souls. They no this yet they continue on. They aren't running away from their commitment, but rather shouldering it with determination and celebrating the idea that is America!

At the same time these are the same people you see all around you, they are citizen soldiers. They are the guy pumping gas, or the gal serving you breakfast, or a member of the local volunteer fire department, or sales clerk, or the teacher, or the... Yeah - just about anyone. Yet they aren't just anyone. These are people who have made an extra commitment to our way of life, they have said "I believe in our nation, and I'm willing to die for you so you can live your life in safety."

Have no doubt that there are people who want to deny you of your freedoms and of your very life. Al Qaeda comes immediately to mind. These guys don't care whether you are black, white or green! They see anyone that doesn't believe as they do as an infidel and want to see you dead. It is as simple as that.

Who stands between their determination to end your existence and your peaceful life style? Why those same people I've already mentioned, ,i.e. our soldiers, sailors, airman, marines, and coast guardsmen.

Thanks to all of them!