Let Freedom Ring!

'The parade of colors enters the Memorial Amphitheater'

Song: 'Torch of Freedom', By Restless Heart


Written By, Michelle C. @2009 www.whatplanetareyoulivingon.blogspot.com
(2:00 a.m.)

Freedom is no abstract notion; it is rather the life blood of this great nation in which we, as Americans, are privileged to live and thrive.

Freedom is a hard won right. It is a gift given by those who have so bravely served in the past. It is a gift preserved by those willing to serve in our armed forces today.

Yet, it is so very easy for Americans to take for granted the many freedoms that we, as Americans, have in this day and age of unsurpassed and exoteric technology. We often forget the roots of the hard won freedom that we now enjoy. We forget that without our freedom there would be no United States of America as we know it today.

Therefore, let us pause today to reflect upon this most cherished gift of freedom. Let us then go beyond reflection and express our gratitude with action. Let us make our heartfelt appreciation known to the brave men and women of our armed forces: to those who have served, as well as to those who are currently serving. Let us also express our thanks to those who support those who serve: the family members of our military personnel.

May God continue to bless America, land of the free and home of the brave. May her freedom continue to ring for many generations to come. And may God bless all Veteran's, past and present, this Veteran's Day 2009 and throughout the upcoming year ahead.

My Dad (above photo: as Major;

next photo is his early enlistment at age of 18)

I am so grateful for my father and for his distinguished 23 years of service in the United States Air Force, and for my husband who served four years in the United States Army. A heartfelt thanks to both of my grandfathers who also served in the armed forces during WWII.

Two of my uncles have also served in Vietnam:  Denny and Bruce.  Thank you both.  Your service is truly appreciated!

To father's of friends I have known, thank you for your long careers of service in the United Air Force:  Mr. Bob W., Mr. Bob M. , and Mr. Harry W. 

And to Bruce W... -- wherever you are-- for your service in the National Guard.

To friends I have known in the past, Pat and Troy, who I have heard --via Kathy and Eileen -- are currently serving: a heartfelt thanks to you as well. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers for your safety and the safety and well being of those that you love.

To those that I have had the pleasure of meeting on many flights to and from Texas: among those Lt. xxx and SSgt. xxxx, a sincere THANKS to you too! (Put you guys in my book Lt. Bravo and SSgt. Pitts ... don't worry, you guys are the good guys.  : ).

All of you are in my ongoing thoughts and prayers. God Bless!