A Veteran Remembers

A friend of mine recently wrote, "A guy can get out of the military, but the military never quite gets out of the guy." I know that is a parody on an old saying about a country boy, but it rings very true here as well. It has been almost 60 years since my military hitch was up, but still, today, when I hear a marching drumbeat or see Old Glory waving in the breeze, my old body straightens up and I feel like snapping a salute. My throat still tightens when I see a picture of the Statue of Liberty or hear "O say can you see?.." sung with a hand over the heart. I love this country; I am troubled by what I see happening to it and pray we will not forget how it began and what keeps it strong. Hardly a day goes by that I do not reflect on those days when my sense of patriotism characterized my life and hopes.

I had hardly graduated from high school when my life circumstances made it clear that I had to give serious thought to an enlistment in whichever branch of the military that attracted me. It was not without some considerable inner debate that my decision was made to sign on for a four-year tour of duty in the United States Air Force. Even at the young age of 18, my decision was made fully aware that I was going to be a candidate for some level of warfare in the conflict in Korea, raging heavily at that time. To be quick to say; I was so fortunate to miss such danger. About the time I was to deploy to the war zone, a cease-fire was instituted and a lot of guys along with me were able to breathe a deep sigh of relief. But we never forgot that each of us had signed that blank check payable to the United States of America for any amount, up to and including our lives. How can a kid like that make such a commitment? I don't know. But I know that was exactly what I did, with full knowledge, and willing to keep that commitment. I am so proud of my fellow military vets who were exposed to mortal danger, and I celebrate their dedication and service. I know full well that except for the grace of Almighty God, that could have been me. I was willing, but He was not.

So by comparison, my four years were a wonderful experience, and today and I can enjoy the freedoms afforded me by those whose sacrifices took on a far more serious nature. God bless them. I fly my Star Spangled Banner with great pride and gratitude for my country and my God. My heart is full and I can say to any military person today, man or woman, I salute you and wish you blessings for your faithfulness.