The Volunteers

Do not  take a single day for granted, especially when there are those who are willing to die to present it to you, both present and past. All of us have busy lives, which are usually stressed on Mondays, but as you enjoy the radio, casual lunch or friendly conversation with friends, know there are warriors out of sight slinging lead at enemies that want you and everything America stands for to die and he volunteered to do it. Hell of a group of volunteers, I would say. Semper Fidelis warrior.

This letter was originally published by the Clayton News Daily (Jonesboro, GA) on July 4th, 2007.

To the editors:

Today is July 4th, our country's Independence Day, and 231 years ago, our forefathers won this for all to enjoy.

Today, our country has more freedoms and wealth than any other in the world. We have all of our freedoms granted to us by the U.S. Constitution. This document sets the standards for all Americans to be guaranteed their freedoms and rights.

Of all the freedoms and rights granted to each American, it is not the news reporter or politician, who ensures that each American enjoys these rights, but it is the American Service Member (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard.) This is the person who every American should be thanking every day, for what they do.

Even though less than 1 percent of the American population serves in the military, it is that sacrifice made by an individual to help protect and guarantee these freedoms. While enjoying the day's festivals celebrating our country's birth, take the time and effort to thank a veteran, or a current service member for their sacrifice in helping to protect your freedom.

If you are unable to thank a vet, say thanks to either the parents or the spouse of a vet, because they are the ones, who worry the most, while the service member is away, protecting your freedoms.

Master Sergeant Mitch Young
B Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne)
Killed in action in Afghanistan on July 13th, 2008

The family requests that if you are moved to make a contribution, please sent to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation at www.specialops.org.

Comments

[Donna, Los Osos, CA]

Rest in Peace Warrior. We will never forget.

[MitchCat]

Ditto on that one, D. Semper Commemini, Always Remember.

[Techie24Chick]

Thanks for sharing!

[Mom2corps]

I thank you all. I know why I'm free and I will forever be grateful. It is the courage and selfless acts of bravery that makes this country the greatest, and shame on those who will not recognize those who serve.
God bless you all, Sir.
God bless the family of MSgt Young. He will not be forgotten.