Saluting our Veterans

A hero is someone who has given his or her life for something bigger than oneself! Today is Veterans Day. Our utmost appreciation and respect for our Veterans, alive, and for those who made their ultimate sacrifice for us and our Country.

Freedom really isn’t free – especially the high cost of those who keep us safe, protected and free. Indeed, we are the land of the free and the home of the bravest men and women who served and serve so selflessly.

At our church yesterday, the flag was the backdrop to our choir singing and our orchestra playing patriotic songs that expressed our appreciation for those who served us. Among these heroes is my dear husband, Carl, a 21-year Army Reservist Veteran, served this Country with honor and unwavering dedication.

Also, in our church’s foyer was the Wall of Honor, where Carl’s picture stood beside many others who had also worn their uniform with pride and served our Country.

I beam with pride and gratitude, knowing that each face tells a story of bravery, sacrifice, and a love that mirrors the words of Jesus: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13).

Then, after lunch we drove to the City of Georgetown, Texas where the 8th Annual Rotary Club Field of Honor was lined with over 2,000 plus flags stretched across acres of land. It stirred something profound in my heart.

It was a beautiful reminder that we live in a country where freedom is protected by those who serve, even to the point of sacrifice. For all they have given, we take a moment to remember and honor the veterans — those brave men and women who stepped forward with courage and conviction.

In return for their acts of courage and commitment, I pray that we show up on the side of our veterans to love and appreciate their sacrifices. From the bottom of my heart, I shout “Thank you for your bravery. Thank you for believing in the stars and stripes. Thank you for standing up for us on the battlefield. Thank you for singing the “National Anthem” with your head held high, your hand saluting the flag and the freedoms that you fought so violently for.

Thank you for your service to the United States of America.” I stand with you, with my hand held over my heart in allegiance to our flag, I sing loud and strong “o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave! I thank God for your great love for us all.

God bless America – our home sweet home! And God bless our Veterans!