For the Veterans...

“I pledge allegiance to the Flag
of the United States of America
and to the Republic for which it stands.
One nation, under God, indivisible
With liberty and justice for all.”

Such simple words, but together those 31 words mean so much.
 

Every day we take it for granted that we can do what we want, say what we want, be what we want.
You want to badmouth the President? Fine.
Vote in the election? No problem.
Protest in front of the Capital? Go ahead, just don’t cause a riot.
 

Every day we take it for granted that we have the right to speak our mind, the right to share our opinion. But let’s not forget who really gave us that right. The veteran.
 

Our President, our Commander in Chief is tasked with running our country, preserving these United States of America. Whether you love him or hate him (and maybe one day a her), he (or she) is the face of our nation.
 

Our service men are deployed and called back as the President wills, and it is they who ensure that we as citizens do have “liberty and justice for all.”
 

It is because of their sacrifice, because of their pledge, that we are free. They fight for the rights we so often take for granted, rights they themselves give up during their service.
 

So next time you see a man, or woman, in uniform, thank them. They probably know that their sacrifices are appreciated, that what they do is not in vain, but it never hurts to say it.
 

To all the veterans past and present who have served or are currently serving in any branch of the armed forces - Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard - thank you. You are appreciated and you are loved.
 

Happy (Belated) Veteran’s Day!