Today, we salute those who have been willing to sacrifice their lives so we may live in peace and freedom.
Lieutenant Colonel Robert Bowman was a fighter pilot during the Vietnam War. He flew 101 combat missions during the war, and afterward directed all “Star Wars” space programs under Presidents Ford and Carter. He does much in the way of promoting veteran benefits, and took time a few years ago to pen the following Veteran’s Day speech. Think about the brave young men and women who selflessly serve our country when reading Bowman’s speech:
“We are gathered here to honor our nation’s veterans. All Americans, regardless of political persuasion or attitude toward ongoing wars, want to express appreciation to our veterans, whether they’re from World War I or II or freshly back from Iraq or Afghanistan. But it’s not enough to just say ‘Thanks for all your sacrifices. Here’s a free meal once a year.’ No, we must work all year long to see that our veterans are taken care of… We must see that those who gave their lives are acknowledged and indeed honored, not swept under the rug. Yes, today all of us are united in respecting and honoring our veterans. Fellow veterans, I salute you for your service, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
It has been said that while many gave some in the way of service for our country, some gave all they had to protect life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. They gave up their own hopes and dreams for their lives and put the safety and freedom of their countrymen above their own goals.
Today, we take time to remember those who have fought and died for our nation’s freedom. Our nation wasn’t always free. Brave patriots broke away from the tyrannical rule of England and stood for something more than obeisance to the crown. For our forefathers to stand for freedom, they had to defend it with their lives.
Thank you to all veterans, old and young. Thank you for being willing to give your life so our children can live in peace and freedom.
As we remember those who sacrificed their lives, take a minute to remember the ultimate sacrifice given for freedom. Luke 23 shows an innocent Man who stood in the face of His enemies and though He did nothing to deserve death, willingly gave Himself so that we might be spiritually free from sin.
As you remember and honor veterans today, also honor God by living for Him. Tell someone you know about Christ’s ultimate sacrifice, and never forget to honor His love for you.–By Dr. Paul Chappell
