As a child my parents instilled in me a love of America, not the jingoistic, false-patriotism of just sticking a flag on your car or dressing up in flag-wear or historic garb, but the willingness to stand up when asked and to serve as best you can. They didn't just tell us, they lived it all their lives. Today I'm remembering their service in the time of war. My father in the Army and my mother in the WACs, their brothers, their friends... all who sacrificed, who gave when called upon, I can only say... To all of you who have given your youth, your strength, your smarts, your lives in service to your country... to our country... thank you, and we won't forget.
