With the marking of 4,000 deaths this week in the war in Iraq it made me think of commitment and service by many in our world. No greater love is given than to lay down one's life. We honor those who serve and also those many wounded as well.
In combat zones, you will hear soldiers, men and women, who go back for additional tours of duty to serve with their units. It isn't sometimes about the mission or the politics of the war, but rather about the unit.
There's an expression in combat patrols which says "I've got your back."
We should all be so lucky in life to have a military service person, a family member, a friend, a Realtor, any professional who has our back.
We know that they can be counted on in thick and thin times. We need not turn around to see that they are there "covering" for us. It is a matter of faith. When you find someone like this in your life (personal or business) make note of them. In the category of true friends, you have found a treasure.
There is a Nigerian proverb that says, "Hold on to a true friend with both hands." It is so true. They are examples of loyalty to you that is a fleeting rarity in today's modern world. I view it as perhaps a glimpse of a little "heaven on earth."
So to all those in the military and in life in general that have our backs, I salute you as my heroes.
Thank you Gary, for a great post. I have an 18 year old who is a senior in high school. To apply for student aid in college, he had to register for the selective service. Thank heavens there is no draft. I think of this young man in my life when I see photos and stories of the service men and women in Iraq and around the world.
I support the troops, not the war.
Living in a community about 30 miles from Fort Leonard Wood, I occasionally run into one of these heroes that "have my back". My habit is to approach them, shake their hand and extend a very appreciative "thank you". Once they get over the initial shock, they welcome it warmly. I don't think they know how many civilians would "have their back" in a case of necessity.
I'm with Carol Lee. I support the troops, not the war.
Arina: We owe so much to those of service.
Holly: Wow a hero in your house! Semper Fi.
Rich: You are absolutely right about sacrifice.
Rosario: The loyalty to the unit, the band of brothers, is amazing.
Gary, I love it. Thank you for this. My 19 year old is in boot camp right now & I just love to hear your tribute to those that serve. I am very proud of my son & all those that serve selflessly for the better of our country. Take care.
Gary: This is an outstanding post. Last night on Celebrity Apprentice, (yes, Celebrity Apprentice)! one of the charities they were raising money for was to help wounded soldiers. One soldier who had lost both legs was ready to go back for another tour. He said he had some unfinished business! Amazing courage and if this doesn't humble a person and make pride in our military men and women swell to the point we could burst, then nothing will. God Bless Our Troops.
Christina: Wow, you raised a hero!!
Gary: They all deserve our salute.
Trey: You point out the sacrifice. That is something we all should remember.
Patricia: Absolutely true.
Mariana: I hope your sadness is not prolonged. Yes, the 4,000 families have a missing loved one, which will affect them their whole lives.
Donna: Thanks for sharing what you saw on Celebrity Apprentice and the ribbon!!
I want no more to die. I want no more to be injured. I want...
The soldiers, past and present, make it possible for me to want...they serve honorably because they serve. Too many are injured, both soldier and civilian. I want peace! I don't want it to be some Disney film but a reality...
flowers in guns are a shock to the general senses because it does not seem to make rational sense to oppose, or stop, violence in such a manner. I support our troops! They do their job to perfection. I do not support the war in Iraq.