Redding's Ups and Downs

Today, Veterans Day, I speak with appreciation for our soldier's service to our country.  We respect, and are grateful to you, for keeping our country free.  My father-in-law was in the Coast Guard in World War II, and my father was in the Air Corp, flying 35 missions in B17s over Germany.   

My husband and I were married 39 years ago, and when we came back from our honeymoon, his draft papers were in the mail.  He had tried to volunteer three different times, but the military wouldn't take him because of bronchitis.  But the war lowered standards.  They let him finish his junior year in college and four months later he was gone.  It was a long 18 months, but we made it, and perhaps it made our marriage stronger.  Because of our brave soldiers and veterans, I hope our 4 year old and 6 month old grandsons will not have a reason to have to go to war when they are older.  But if need be, I know they will do anything to protect our freedom. 

I cry every time I say the pledge of allegiance, and appreciate every soldier that has ever served.   Thank you.