The llth hour of the llth day of the llth month... in 1918 was originally called Armistice Day. It marked the end of WW1. Emotions were high and mixed - celebration and grief combined. The high cost of war should not be forgotten.
In 1954, President Woodrow Wilson gave the day an official name change to include all veterans of our armed services. The US Marine Corp birthday is November 10, 1775. Next year is a big birthday for the USMC. From them, it is a double celebration.
My heart is full as I think of the many soldiers who serve and defend. At land and at sea, most of us will never fully understand the sacrifice. It is truly humbling.
I have been digging through family records and have found glimpses into the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Civil War, WW1, and WW2(Several St. John family members were at Pearl Harbor when it was attacked). Uncle Mel served in the Army during the Korean War. Dad served in the Army during peace times not long before Vietnam. Papa Chet Watson was in the Navy. My sister, April, was in in the USAF in the mid-90's. My twin cousins, David and James, have been career Navy (Papa Chet would be so proud.). James just retired and David is currently deployed on the USS Wasp. Freedom isn't free.
I do not consider myself very brave. I like a "just in case" back-up plan. I am in awe of those who choose military service. They are willing to lay down their lives for our country, their brothers and sisters in arms, and for their families back home. They stand in the gap between chaos and peace. They protect and they serve.
" There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." -John 15:13
I love the quote that reminds us that their service is not defined by hatred for an enemy; their service reflects their deep love for life, liberty, and freedoms we know in these United States. They do it for the people they love at home.
Today, I am grateful for Veterans.
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