A time for giving thanks...

To my grandfather, Raymond, who fought in the Pacific Theater, in World War II, and died two years before I was born. I wish I had known you. 

To my father-in-law, Terry -- a Marine Captain in Vietnam -- the father of my wife, grandfather to my children, and a man who is like a father to me.

To my brother-in-law Jeff, an active Marine for four years, and now doing everything he can to support his family. Forever faithful.

To my brother-in-law Pete, a Captain in the Army, dedicated to his family and his country.

To those farmers and simple men, whose souls were tried at Valley Forge, and who believed that they could begin the world all over again. 

To those men in blue, who turned back the rebellious tide at Gettysburg, and moved a nation closer to its founding, self evident truths.

To those of that magnificent generation, who, literally, saved the world from fascism -- and then shunned the title of hero.

To those who endured a confusing and dangerous action in Vietnam, only to come home to  a nation bitterly divided.

To those who watched nearly three thousand innocent Americans die, on a beautiful early September morning, and felt they needed to be part of the solution.

To those who joined the Armed Forces for a pension, or for school, or for any other reason at all.

To those who come home to their families, and strive to raise the next generation of patriots. And to those who are never heard from again.

To those who lie below white crosses, in vast green fields. And in tombs without names.

To those citizens who, today, pledge their lives and service to the defense of the great American Promise of Liberty and Equality.

Thank You. 

Happy Veterans Day.