Everyday is full of activity.  We have a lot to do.  We go from here to there with little to make us stop in fear.  We may have our doubts, but we are secure in our lives.  Our kids are growing or grown and safe at home.

Sometimes our memories go back to our fathers, mothers, sisters and brothers.  We remember their lives and the many things we have done together.  When we think of our grandparents, we begin to add in a few more thoughts.  Many, no most, of them served their country overseas in the "war to end all wars," but which was only a prelude to World War II.  While they were over there, their wives and girl friends headed to factories and kept the food, guns, bullets, ships and planes heading to the front lines. 

Then Korea erupted and never ended. Vietnam followed just ten years later.  After Vietnam we ended the draft and went to an all volunteer force of men and women.

Today, many of our young men and baby boomers have never served their country in a conflict.  The wars don't stop, our enemies continue to poke and test our resolve.  But, today the work is done by an all volunteer force.  No one forces our men and women to serve.  They join for many reasons. Some have been in conflict after conflict, yet they go back again and again--many times as a volunteer.  Our services have amputees who are on the front lines.  They were returned to the states, repaired, and spent time home. Some ended their service, but  many others asked to go back again to get the job done.

So, as we go about our daily lives, let us take a moment to remember all of those brave men and women who for centuries have gone over there so that we can be safe over here.  And, be especially thankful to our men and women overseas today.