Veteran's Day: How Do We Expect Our Kids To Know...

...If We Don't Teach Them?

"I...acknowledge what I have come to feel about those who sacrifice some, or all, of their young lives to defend the rest of us.  They are our ordinary citizens who have forced themselves to extraordinary service.  They do not answer the call to arms lightly, but weigh it against the safety and comforts of life at home.  Yet they do answer.  They answer because when the call does come, and they then look into their hearts, they see the delicate flame of freedom begin to flicker." - Jim Proser

"In war, there are no unwounded soldiers." - Jose Narosky

"People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf." - George Orwell

"Their story is known to all of you.  It is the story of the American man-at-arms.  My estimate of him was formed on the battlefield many, many years ago, and has never changed.  I regarded him then as I regard him now - as one of the world's noblest figures, not only as one of the finest military characters, but also as one of the most stainless.  His name and fame are the birthright of every American citizen.  In his youth and strength, his love and loyalty, he gave all that mortality can give.  He needs no eulogy from me or from any other man.  He has written his own history and written it in red on his enemy's breast.  But when I think of his patience under adversity, of his courage under fire, and of his modest victory, I am filled with an emotion of admiration I cannot put into words.  He belongs to history as furnishing one of the greatest examples of successful patriotism.  He belongs to posterity as the instructor of future generations in the principles of liberty and freedom.  He belongs to the present, to us, by his virtues and by his achievements." - General Douglas MacArthur

"This will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." - Elmer Davis

"But the freedom that they fought for, and the country grand they wrought for, Is their monument to-day, and for aye." - Thomas Dunn English

Take A Moment To Thank A Veteran

When you see someone in a uniform,
Someone who serves us all,
Doing military duty,
Answering their country’s call,

Take a moment to thank them
For protecting what you hold dear;
Tell them you are proud of them;
Make it very clear.
Just tap them on the shoulder,
Give a smile, and say,
"Thanks for what you’re doing
To keep us safe in the USA!"
By Joanna Fuchs

Every day should be Veteran's Day in our heart, but at the very least we should take a few moments on November 11th to make note of those who have protected the freedoms we enjoy as Americans.  We need not do this because they are heroes - because they do not see themselves as such - we need to do this to acknowledge the sacrifices they have made for each of us...And please, don't forget those who are currently serving - nor those waiting for them at home.