We Are All Soldiers
Everyone has heard stories of valiant members of our military forces who placed the best interests of their country and fellow soldiers above their own, making the ultimate sacrifice in the performance of their duties. We should all say a prayer for these people, past and present, as well as the many more who have acted in a similar manner without recognition or reward.
If you are interested in learning more about men and women who have sacrificed their lives for our country, there are many good websites naming those individuals, describing medals awarded for acts of heroism and valor, and providing a place of honor for them to rest. Just as a starting point, you might consider a visit to this one:
Whether they were drafted or enlisted on their own, we owe a huge debt to those who defend(ed) our liberties. Without them, our Constitution would be a worthless piece of paper.
Sad to say, the distinguished few, along with the multitude of others who served quietly, are not held in as high regard today as they were in years past. I believe this is largely due to the fact that, despite 9/11 and Afghanistan and Iraq, most of the people in our country have not actually felt threatened like they did in, say, World War II, where the outcome could have been much different than it was and our country could have been conquered by foreign powers. Whether they support our military or not, seems like there are far more people who feel very comfortable in their homes and daily lives and cannot envision a real possibility of our nation falling under the control of another power. Fading memories is why history has a habit of repeating itself.
Just as soldiers have a sworn duty to serve their country, I believe every citizen has an obligation to be actively involved in the process that is core to our representative form of government: voting. While we may not be called to die for the rights of our fellow citizens, we owe it to ourselves and others to express our HONEST, INFORMED OPINIONS via elections.
When voter turnout is poor, election results place greater power in the hands of fewer people. The more people who take time to inform themselves about the candidates and issues… and vote for what they think is best FOR OUR COUNTRY (not themselves individually)… the better. Asking citizens to make the effort to become informed and devote a little time to voting is a task in itself, but it pales in comparison to putting your country before yourself. A true patriot will do so, a selfish individual will not.
The next time an election rolls around, educate yourself about the topics on the ballot and learn about the individuals who are running for office. Carefully consider what is really the BEST alternative for our country and vote accordingly. While there are not meritorious awards for this service, you will be deserving of one if you perform your duty honestly… and our nation will be the better for it. YOU will know that you’ve done the right thing… and that should be satisfaction enough.
Although we don’t wear the uniform or carry a rank, WE are also soldiers for our country and should have every motivation to ensure the continued success of our great nation… for ourselves, for our children, for the future of us all.
