Day 316: "Present, ARMS!"

Regardless of our politics, the one thing we can stand united together is in the sharing of our undying gratitude towards our nation's veterans.  For without them the luxuries of freedom we so easily take for granted would not be ours to enjoy.  Over the years I've had the extreme privilege of meeting many of our veterans who have served as far back as World War II to the present day conflicts in Iran and Afghanistan.  It seems now, more than ever, we are all touched by the huge sacrifices these men and women make on our behalf.  Many of us have had fathers and grandfathers that have served in past wars.  Now we are seeing fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews and dear friends taking up arms in defense of our great country.  Our collective memories fade over time and it's the memory of these great sacrifices we must hold dear to our hearts for if we lose them, we lose ourselves.  If the opportunity is there, take the time to talk to our veterans and if nothing else, remind them of how grateful and indebted we are to them.  Remind them their sacrifices have not been in vain and that this nation embraces them with the love, thanks and absolute devotion to those that serve this nation on our behalf.