I attended the Veteran's Day ceremonies here at Arlington National Cemetery today. My Dad was one of the vets that carried the colors in the procession that opened the ceremony, and also closed the ceremony. I served my country for a little over 10 years, and felt it was my duty to serve the country that allowed me to live the life that I have. I don't know about a lot of other folks, but when my country's flag goes by me in a parade, a procession, or any other event, I well up with pride, and emotion. I've even had a tear or two run down my cheek when that happens. Today, I sat with my Mom in the Amphitheater in the Cemetery, and a number of times my emotions welled up. Do you know there are still about 200 veterans still alive in the United States that fought and served in World War 1? Our servicemen and servicewomen rightfully deserve all the accolades and applause for doing what they did, and for what they are still doing today. Thank God we have the highest caliber of soldiers, sailors, and airmen serving our respective countries this day. God bless them all.
It was cold, windy, and rainy out there at Arlington National Cemetery today. But just think what our service folks have gone through in the past, and what they are going through today. I can come home to a nice warm home, and be with my family. They can't. They are out there on the front lines, trying to survive the bullets, the bombs, the rockets and mortars. When you're out there, there isn't any warm safe place to come home to at night. And your family isn't there to be with. My heart goes out to all of our friends, neighbors, and relatives who are out there, ready, willing and able to make the ultimate sacrifice for us.
Those of you that honor your country's veterans today, please think about the folks that are out there, serving your respective country, and helping others so that they may be able to enjoy the same freedoms we do, and take for granted. God Bless them all.
Mark
At 11:55 AM 11/11/2003, you wrote:
Here on the West Coast it is approaching the eleventh hour. I hope everyone took the time for a moment of silence to reflect and remember the veterans who paid so dearly for the freedoms we have today.
Mel
