In the song “God Bless the USA” Lee Greenwood sings, “I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I’m free, and I won’t forget the men who died to give that right to me.” I believe this to be one of the greatest songs of all time. But in honor of all veterans, I would like to change two words. I would like to say, “I won’t forget the Ones who Served to give that right to me.” On Memorial Day, we remember those who died in the service of our nation. Veterans Day however has been set aside to honor all who served and sacrificed so much for our freedom.

Those who served our nation so faithfully deserve our highest esteem. Each one made unique sacrifices. For some their first time away from home was spent in boot camp. Also, imagine spending your first Christmas away from your family half the world away. Many veterans came home with physical and emotional scars. All came home changed.They all deserve our gratitude, respect and honor.

There is a story in the Bible of David defeating the Amalekites in battle. After the battle, some of the men who fought did not want to share the spoils with the ones who guarded the supplies. In 1 Samuel 30:24, David makes it clear that he considered the ones who served in support to be just as important as the ones who served in battle. Now, not all veterans served on the battlefield. Not all veterans served in foreign lands. But all served. Every soldier on the battle field needs an army of support personnel behind him. It does not matter where they served, our veterans all served faithfully. They are all genuine heroes.

“Thank you for your service.” We always mean well when we say this but I have noticed many veterans seem to be embarrassed by the recognition. It is as if they would say,” I was just doing my job”. Yes, they had a job to do and they did it well. Veteran’s Day and everyday a grateful nation says thank you for a job well done. Myself, I will always be proud to be an American where at least I know I’m free and I will never forget those of you who served so faithfully to preserve that right for me.

Douglas @ Deborah Huff

Pavement Ends Ministry

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