Freedom is not free!

On this Veteran’s Day, I want to acknowledge the countless men and women who have served their country. My words are worth little compared to the efforts on the battlefields, in support of the troops on land, in the air and on the sea. Thank you for your service to our country and the freedoms we enjoy today. I also acknowledge the service in my own family: my Dad who served in the Army in WWII, his brothers who both served (Uncle Dave in the Army and Uncle Richard who served in the Marines) and my big brother who served in the Navy during Vietnam. In my wife’s family, two of her uncles served in the Marines and Air Force in WWII, brothers served in the Navy and Air Force. I also think of students and son’s of friends who served in the Marines, Army and Navy! Some are serving as I write. I’m proud of them all!

Our band marched in the San Jose Veteran’s Day Parade, leading the parade. What an honor. We march in honor of all who served or are serving. I consider our performance as a heartfelt gift to those who serve.

This year we honor the end of WWI ninety-six years ago at 11am, on the eleventh day of the eleventh month. I was awestruck when I read about the honor given to the English veterans who were lost during the war. As a temporary memorial, 888, 624 ceramic poppies were created and ‘planted’ in the dry moat surrounding the Tower of London. One poppy for each service member who died for their country. Amazingly touching. After Veteran’s Day, the poppies have been sold to raise funds for charities. What a beautiful gesture.