Veterans Day November 11, 2011

As some of you know, I worked ten years with the US Army’s Peace Keeping Force (KFOR) in the Balkans Region in Europe. Daily, I saw, the dedication and sacrifice of our soldiers in an active foreign military region. Their service and dedication protects our rights to individual freedom. They insure our right to liberty, justice, and life. Their actions guarantee our right to worship without fear of reprisal. Honor with Prayer our service men and women that stand in formation every day to protect our freedom. Remember and Pray for the souls of those that paid the ultimate price for our freedom. The patriotism shown by these men and women reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States. No finer soldiers are to be found throughout the free world.
In Europe, my Brother and I toured the locations where our Father had served. He served with General Patton during World War II and took part in eight major campaigns (dd214). Visiting the American Cemeteries, I learned that untold numbers of American Soldiers not only gave their life defending our country, but are interred in foreign soil. Many are still missing and unaccounted for. Give Thanks and Remember them today. I think of the words from Flanders Field, although it was written during World War I, it still rings true today.

In Flanders Fields
John McCrae, May 1915
In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row,That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, flyScarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throwThe torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who dieWe shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.