Veterens Day 2009

I feel like I should say Thank You to all the veterens of our Armed Forces out there who throughout the generations have defended our freedom. But somehow, it seems like nothing I could ever write here would be enough.

I have two nephews - Adam a former marine served several tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Thank you Adam. Chris is still in the Navy, Thank you Chris.

My father served in the Army and was stationed in Germany when he was introduced through the mail to my mother, by his friend Marlo. Thank you Dad. Thank you Marlo for more than just your service, but also for your meddling in my Dad's personal life.

My Grandfather served during World War I, he was on his way to the ship to be deployed in Europe when the Armistice was signed. Thank you Grandpa.

My great-Uncle Arnie served in the Second World War. He was in the South Pacific near the end of the war. He never talked about his time there, even when I got him drunk. Thank you Uncle Arnie.

I suspect that there were several more relative in my linage that served. Thank you to all of them.

In addition to our family, a huge heartfelt thank you to every man and woman that has ever served to defend my families freedom.

I have spent most of my life working with military men. Almost without exception they have been some of the smartest men I have ever met. They also all remind me of a quote by George Orwell:

"People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf."

This is one of the best descriptions of our military I know - rough men/women who stand ready to do what is necessary to defend us and our country.

Thank you to all the rough men and women who now and for all time have stood ready on my behalf.