Today, I went to a first grade program at Laura Welch Bush Elementary in Austin, Texas. My granddaughter was in a patriotic program honoring Veterans Day. I was impressed by the patriotism of the six year old students when the American flag entered the room, carried by representatives of the Boy Scouts, and placed in the flag stand. All hands were on their hearts and the children stood united as they recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
Those who had served in the armed forces who were sitting in the audience were asked to stand. I looked around the room and I could see the different generations represented; there were soldiers in their twenties and those in their late sixties. Then the first graders sang tribute songs honoring the different military divisions. It was very touching to see their sparkling faces and to see the strong soldiers standing proud before a room filled with tiny voices.
There was a man in his sixties standing across from where I was seated and I noticed the tears in his eyes. Perhaps he had fought in Vietnam, I thought to myself. He was a man who had obviously experienced the repercussions of war, for I could see it in his posture and upon his face. Perhaps at some point he had stood face to face with death and not wavering, I wondered. Yet as the little children sang out, this man and others in the room were emotionally caught up in a beautiful experience. Again, I was proud to be an American and live in a wonderful country where "real heros" stand tall among the masses.
Unfortunately, there are some people who will never understand the price of freedom until it's lost, but for those who do, we hold American soldiers in the highest esteem. The world is in need of honorable men and women; those who are willing to protect the rights and privileges of others who would be defenseless against the perils of evil. This country would not be safe without the courage, honor and loyalty of the soldiers who defend it. They are those who are willing to give everything for what they believe! I truly stand in awe.
This entry today is dedicated to the many soldiers who watch over a great nation and wherever you may be, "Have an amazing day today and everyday thereafter, knowing that you indeed make a difference in the lives of the American people."
I am so thankful for freedom. I know that many have paid a tremendous price for me to enjoy each breath that I take, the sunrise just beyond the horizon, and an equal opportunity for life itself. I am grateful that someone is more brave than I and that they valiantly go before and prepare the safe passage for me and my family. I am eternally grateful!
11/11/11 at 11:00 a.m. millions of Americans were standing proud in honor of all those who sacrifice to protect, defend, and sustain the people of this great country. We are truly indebted to the valor of the American soldier. Written by Linda Sumner Urza, One fine day
(In 1953 the people of Emporia, Kansas called the holiday Veterans Day in honor and gratitude to the veterans of their town. Soon after congress passed a bill introduced by Kansas congressman renaming the federal holiday to Veterans' Day. Beginning in 1954, the United States designated November 11 as Veterans day to honor veterans of all U.s. wars. In 1971 President Nixon declared it a federal holiday.)
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