We Salute You, I Salute You

A day of remembrance and a day of Honor. Our flags are raised with you in mind. Though there may not be agreeance in what has been done, wars fought, lives lost, there will always be gratitude for you. For signing up and training and shipping out on your own free will; for feeling such pride for our country that you are willing to lay your life on it; for leaving your family and friends behind to fulfill your missions and your duties; for every 'goodbye' you say to your husbands and wives and children knowing there may never be another 'hello' we respect you.

So to all the military men and women of past and present; to those still with us and those who have passed; to those who have made it home from battle and to those who made it home only in spirit; we commend you. I commend you.

To my brother, N, who enlists those brave and honorable enough; S and his infantry division in Afghanistan right now; the many other friends I have, who have served in the past or are serving right now, it would take hours to name you all; to my late Uncle P who risked his life every day for years serving on the Berlin wall in the heat of conflict; There are not enough words to thank you all. Each of you have my unwaivering gratitude and respect. On this day and on every day you are all in our thoughts.

At your funeral nearly 12 years ago the flag was lowered, the color gaurd presented, and the guns saluted. I never got over it and to this day with each 21 gun salute I hear my breath catches in my throat as tears fall down my face. Your folded flag still sits proud on the shelf, just as we stand, still proud, of you. Uncle P you were a husband, a brother, a son, an uncle and my hero.