Today in the U.S. we honor the veterans who gave the ultimate sacrifice and died in the military for our country. It is an important day of remembrance.
Some interesting quotes to ponder in light of this day:
“Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy forget in time that men have died to win them.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
“It doesn’t take a hero to order men into battle. It takes a hero to be one of those men who goes into battle.” – Norman Schwarzkopf
“I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.” – Nathan Hale
“It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God such men lived.” – George S. Patton
Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.” – Unknown
“No duty is more urgent than that of returning thanks.” – St. Ambrose
“May we never forget our fallen comrades. Freedom isn’t free.” – Sgt. Major Bill Paxton
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter the words, but to live by them.” – John F. Kennedy
“My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” – John F. Kennedy
My Grandma Leora lost three sons during WWII. They are the reason I had to learn to write, so they would never be forgotten. “Leora’s Letters: The Story of Love and Loss for an Iowa Family During World War II.”
I appreciate this post. My father was wounded in Viet Nam. I have always been so proud of his service. Growing up a “military kid” was an honor to me.
Vickie, this is for your dad, and for you.
You’ll com upon it suddenly,
grass slopes beneath your feet,
a green black-walled declivity
where you have come to meet
those who went away before
they would have cared to go;
their names are now an open door
unto lost hearts, so know
that in every graven letter,
(you can touch them, strangely warm)
lies a hope for something better,
that they now are free from harm,
and look closely as you do…
reflected in each name is you.
Thank you for writing this. I found the quotes to be very helpful, reminding us of the importance of the day.
Thank you for these thought-provoking quotes.