Armed Forces Day

Today (Saturday May 20) is Armed Forces Day.

It is fitting that on a day the first permanent Iraqi government since the end of Hussein's regime is forming, we pause and remember the freedom we have. We are free because over the history of this country family, friends, loved ones and neighbors have served, and died, on our behalf.

C.S. Scott of Security Watchtower says it well:

We are blessed to live in a land of unprecedented peace and prosperity, where our dreams and aspirations can be fulfilled. Our armed forces provide us the tranquility and freedom, which this republic has enjoyed. The ability to live in a free and democratic country that gives man the capacity to control his own destiny free from oppression and terror. The armed forces of this nation are engaged in the monumental task of fighting terror in Iraq, Afghanistan and other locations where the forces of evil hide, ridding the world of the scourge of international terror.

Unfortunately the rights of man are not enjoyed by all mankind, many across the globe face terror and oppression, denied the basic tenets of liberty. So long as freedom is threatened, we can't take our freedom for granted. Freedom cannot survive without protection. In protecting freedom of all mankind, we honor the men and women of our armed forces serving all across the globe in the preservation of that basic right.

Last Veterans Day, I posted some thoughts on courage, and they certainly apply today as well.

As the vivid colors of the present pale into shades of gray, as memories of the deeds of generations of American soldiers gently fade into the past, may we never take for granted the freedom we enjoy in this country. May we always remember the price so many paid for that freedom.

To all those who serve, or who have served, in the Armed Forces, thank you.