The Price Of Freedom

KeithLBrown · #1 (**permalink**) 11-04-2009, 08:57 AM

This year, 11 November 2009, has been set aside as the day that we call Veterans' Day. This is a day in which we honor the men and women of our armed forces - those who are presently serving this great nation of ours and those who have, in times past, stood their watch with vigilence. Many have survived their experiences and are able to share their stories of courage and commitment with all of us. But, there are many, who in the midst of battle, have become fallen heroes. Though their voices are now physically silent, if we listen closely, up from the deep dark jungles and from the shores of the sandy stormy beaches and heated dessrts, their voices cry to us from the dust, "We loved our country and we shed our blood and gave our lives so that you would be free."

As a 20 year retired United States Navy Veteran, I humbly and proudly salute the valiant men and women who daily put their lives on the line so that we can continue to be the land of the free and the home of the brave. Every flag draped coffin that arrives in a hometown carrying the body of a slain soldier is a constant reminder to me that freedom is not free. The freedoms that we so enjoy come with a hefty price tag -- that price tag often being the spilled blood of a close friend or loved one who unselfishly fought to help keep freedom alive. As we celebrate this Veterans' Day, let us pause to say a prayer for the continual safety and well being of our men and women of the armed forces. May God bless each of them and may God bless the United States of America.

Sincerely,

ET1 Keith Lionel Brown

Electronics Technician First Class, United Staes Navy, Retired

applepansy · #2 (**permalink**) 11-04-2009, 09:11 AM

Thank you Keith... for your post and reminder, but more so for your service.

I love this country. I love our people. As a people, we are truly unafraid to take a stand for freedom.

mnn727 · #3 (**permalink**) 11-04-2009, 12:12 PM

I love it that people are willing to take up arms to defend our country from tyrants, too bad that hasn't happened since 1945.

I'm not blaming the soldiers, sailors, etc. I blame our leaders and the people who elect them, I don't believe any war in the last 60 years has been justified.

But my hats off to those that are willing to serve.