Citizen Defined

Thank goodness members of my family are feeding me material to compensate for the absence of anything substantive from me! My Padre was impressed recently by news story describing how some U.S. companies are truly going the extra mile in support of the military Guard and Reserves. Companies like Sears employ policies that are directly contributing to the war effort by taking care of those who are taking care of us.

(http://www.searsholdings.com/communityrelations/hero/military.htm)

Most Americans have no real appreciation for the sacrifices of our citizen soldiers ("soldiers" here refers to Sailors, Airmen, and Marines too!). They come from all walks of life and when not in uniform, might be found doing any number of jobs in the community. Their greatness lies in the reality that they are like everyone else but with one exception. They hold down a part-time job that requires at times that they forgo all they know, love, and do as a matter of routine in life, lace up their boots and head off to serve and fight on our behalf. They are the only thing standing between most of you able-bodied Americans and the draft.......man, do you owe these folks BIGTIME!!!!

Since the days immediately following 9/11 these selfless super-heroes have been all over the globe doing their part-time gig full-time. Many have completed multiple tours of duty and too many have come home in flag-draped coffins. History will show that any victory we have achieved and any claims of a war won will rest on the reality of their contributions and sacrifice. Whether or not your politics and/or personal constitution can stomach the realities of our current struggles, you cannot argue against the merits of these fine Americans and all that they have done and continue to do. The days of the flawed reference to them as "Weekend Warriors" has been supplanted by a simple branding of "Warriors".

If you know a Guardsman or Reservist, give them a hug and say thanks! Thank them for doing what you would not. Thank them for taking time away from their regular lives so you can continue on with yours. Find the lonely spouse and children whose Mom or Dad are far away during this holiday season. Reach out to them and show your appreciation for what they endure on your behalf. And for those who left never to return, look to the heavens, smile, and offer a silent prayer of gratitude to them for paying the ultimate price as your proxy of selfless sacrifice.

Oh yes, one more thing.......as you are looking heavenward, thank God Almighty for instilling in the hearts of some Americans the strength and desire to be different, act different, serve different, even at their own peril.