The Price of Freedom
HONORING OUR HEROS TODAY AND EVERY DAY.
In defining a "HERO," Google refers to one as "a person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities."
But, what I envision a "HERO" to be goes a little bit deeper...
CAN YOU REALLY DEFINE SUCH A PERSON?
To me, there is so much more that goes into recognizing a "HERO." It is the defining character and ingredients that make a woman and man who they truly are inside. A person of this stature, who has gained their reputation through their abilities, achievements and wit, stands tall as one who is selfless and ascertains respectability for the protection and trust of their country.
WE SALUTE YOU!
SENTIMENTAL TEARS OF APPRECIATION.
Yesterday in church, a very special Veteran, member and Deacon of our church, and who represents the Veteran's Administration and Services in our town, called up Veterans of past and present wars involving America. Since there are no longer any living Veterans from World War I, those serving in World War II and beyond slowly made their way to the front. (World War 1 was fought from July 28, 1914 - November 11, 1918, with 40 million casualties and 23 million wounded).
There was one gentleman from World War II; (a war fought from September 1, 1939 to September 2, 1945, and the deadliest conflict in history with over 70 million fatalities---a staggering 3% of the world's population back in 1940---and with 407,316 American casualties). It is impossible to even imagine such a devastating time, and yet this one lone decorated man stood amongst the congregation with a twinkle of pride, yet a somber expression.
WE SALUTE YOU!
OTHER WARS ACKNOWLEDGED.
He was joined by a couple handfuls of other Veterans from other wars, some of whom were present; The Korean War, (June 25, 1950 - July 23, 1953, with 178,405 casualties and 32,925 missing in action), The Gulf War, (August 2, 1990 - February 28, 1991, with approx. 22,000 air and ground deaths), one young man who served in The Vietnam War, (November 1, 1955 - April 30, 1975, with an estimated 2 million deaths of which 58,220 were American casualties), The Iraq War (March 20, 2003 - December 18, 2011, with 4,424 casualties and 31,952 wounded), and currently, The War in Afghanistan, (code named Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (2001–2014) and Operation Freedom's Sentinel (2015–present).
WE SALUTE YOU!
AN ADMIRABLE SIGHT TO BEHOLD.
Those standing there in a military line in front of us---those with depths of stories in their eyes and with tones of solitude and stamina---who went far above and beyond their call of duty, were honored in earnest.
I rose up effortlessly, applauding loudly with everyone joining in unison. There were tears of gratefulness welling up in everyone's eyes, reflecting on the endless tears shed throughout decades of heartache for those who had fought long and valiantly, with much courage and determination, for their United States of America---those who stood before us and those who had fallen.
The brave soldiers who had survived, living in our area, stood proud near the alter, standing ever so humbly among the honorees.
The standing ovation rang out for over 5 minutes, with the most powerful spirit of empathy ringing through the sanctuary---truly a grand commemoration of a HERO'S recognition!
After the service and surrounded by a somber presence, we all hesitantly walked through the vestibule to leave. It was a humbling morning that triggered and ignited a feeling of kindness and compassion in my spirit, focusing upon fellow comrads---my "HEROS."
WE SALUTE YOU!
A HERO COMES FROM WITHIN.
Yes, to me, a "HERO" can be defined as such, but one has to experience the true definition with their heart. A "HERO" has to be felt and empathized, understanding and sharing those deepest feelings with others to truly appreciate the impact of what a "HERO" stands for---which is FREEDOM.
WE SALUTE YOU!
ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY.
Veterans Day is a public holiday held on the anniversary of the end of World War I which replaced Armistice Day in 1954. (November 11). On this day, we honor US Veterans and victims of all wars---Our "HEROS."
A most heartfelt THANK YOU to ALL OUR Veterans for your unwavering service.
WE SALUTE YOU!
ONE STEP FURTHER.
From my HEART, I would like to add these words to the definition of a "HERO:"
Admirable, Courageous, Resolute, Brave, Bold, Purposeful, Determined, Unwavering, Dignified, Unshakable, Purposeful, Strong-willed, Adamant, Tenacious, Audacious, Unflagging, Tireless, Steadfast, Loyal, Faithful, Devoted, Dedicated, Reliable, Constant, Committed, Steady, Dependable, True, Unswerving, Trustworthy, Dutiful, RIghteous, Active, Persistent, Valiant, Gallant, Daring, Intrepid, Undaunted, Confident, Gutsy, and Heroic.
To all those who have served and / or are currently serving in The War in Afghanistan, my earnest and deepest prayers go out to you and your families.
WE SALUTE YOU!
ON A PERSONAL NOTE.
I am honoring MY "HERO" today, as I do every day---my Dad, C. Darrell Conley--- for his service. He was a Korean War veteran, serving overseas in Germany as a radio operator with the U.S. Army. One instance gained him much recognition when he single-handedly orchestrated a brilliant plan which began sketched on a napkin in the barracks. This clever plan was the design of an underground irrigation system that was laid out by my father, constructed, and put into action. Many were dying from contamination, and this system purified the water for a whole village and community, thus saving many lives of both civilians and soldiers.
Throughout hardships during war times, such as toxic water, efforts like my father's and countless others who put forth their firm hand into making life around them a little better, helped to pave the way for bouts of humanity through times of hatred.
Although my "HERO" has joined my Mom in heaven, his spirit of faithfulness, dedication and devotion continues to shine out over his country and family. I'm so proud to call him my Dad.
WE SALUTE YOU!
THE PRICE OF FREEDOM?
You can't put a price on FREEDOM, for the ultimate sacrifice given by those who unselfishly have served or are serving our great country goes far beyond words. It is that prideful feeling of gratitude we feel so deeply for---in the land of the FREE and the HOME OF THE BRAVE.
WE SALUTE YOU!
HONORING ALL PAST AND PRESENT MEN, WOMEN AND CANINES OF THE ARMED FORCES.
WE SALUTE YOU!
Humbly,
Erin
May the words of this blog reside in each of our hearts today and every day moving forward. Thank you.
WE SALUTE YOU!
Recent Comments
60
Erin,
Thank you for this post honoring our Military Men and Women
Past Present and Future without them, God only knows what
would happen in our country as we know it :)
It gives me great pleasure to speak out to all our HEROS, Roland! Thank you for your kindness. Blessings!
Erin :)!
Thanks f or posting, Erin. Timely and inspiring, and something very commendable on this day. Yes, salute our heros!
I'm proud to pour out gratitude for all the amazing contributions made, Fran! Thanks for your compelling reply! XOXO
Erin :)!
Oh Erin, thank you so much for this post. For sharing your heart and causing our eyes to water. You have beautifully described what it is to be a hero. (((HUGZ)))
Your comment has melted my heart, Frank---the true reason I wrote this post. Bringing emotion and feeling to all who read it, and truly making people feel how powerful the subject is means everything!
Thank you for that! XO
Erin :)!
What beautiful post, Erin. Today I want to do something meaningful on Veterans Day. My son and I will so to downtown Spokane to the Union Gospel Mission. They feed and give shelter to the homeless. I feel the time has come for my son who is fourteen years old, not to say he respects veterans, but show his respect for them. We will be making beds for all the for all the night time homeless,(most are veterans with PTSD). H and I will also help with lunch and Dinner not just making it, but severing as well. We stopped by God'd closet and pick out warm clothing and extra blankets. before I knew it most of the people in the closet were helping us. Everything at the Gods closet is free. We were given go much, my son donated his allowance to them. I hope is he will continue to work at the shelter in the future. At 14 and having already graduated from High School, this would a wonderful education for him.
I hope others step out to help our vets on this day.
Sandy
Every day is Veterans Day, Sandy! What a wonderful service you and your son have provided. Your direction and guidance for your son have molded him into a true giver! Bless you both and thanks so deeply for sharing your day!! XOXO
Wow! A 14-year-old graduate!
Erin :)!
Thank you, Erin, now he wants to join WA. He is only fourteen. I have been talking to Trish and Vicki about it, he is done with high school and too young to start college.
I was not born yet when the Rock In The Pacific came under attack by the Japanese. I however heard many tales from those who were around and lived to tell of the horrors of war.
I heard about the tale of two fighter planes, one from the Japanese and one from the Americans in a much remembered dog fight. The American plane came out winning, the Japanese plane was shot down and went into flames.
This guy from the Rock will always feel and remember that gratitude for the eventual FREEDOM gained for the islands by those gallant fighting forces that liberated us in 1945.
It was an honor to have later served 20 great years alongside these great men of honor, pride, dedication and valor of the Armed Forces Of The United States of America.
I personally thank you Erin for writing this piece to honor those who died, who served including your Dad.
I SALUTE THEM!
Joe
Wow, Joe! Your reply brought tears to my eyes! I truly appreciate you sharing your story here. It has painted a grim, yet proud picture of the priceless lives that fought for our country. Thank you for saluting all, including my precious Dad. :) XOXO
Erin :)!
Thanks Dave. I just spent the last 6 1/2 hours writing it. :) ---time well spent! From 5:30 am - noon.
Erin :)!
Jeez, well done, but what on earth were you doing up at 5.30AM! I'm still in the lland of nod ; )
HAHA. I don't know, Dave! I woke up out of a sound sleep and opened my computer, and I just started typing my thoughts. It's a good thing I went right to bed last night without logging in! lol
Erin :)!
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Beautiful tribute to our heroes, Erin. My church also had a special service for our veterans yesterday. I don't think there was a dry eye in the church when we sang "I'm Proud to Be An American", or America the Beautiful. We have one Navy SeeBee who worked for President Bush at Camp David. He is a wonderful artist, and designed and painted the front of the President's Christmas cards. He has been ill, and wasn't able to be there yesterday, but he was remembered anyway.
I'm so happy you shared that, Carol! That's truly an amazing story! I will pray for his health. xoxo
Erin :)!
Thanks, Erin.
XOXOXOX
Thanks for your prayers for Doug. He is doing better.
That's wonderful, Carol! XOXO Prayers do help!
Doug usually plays Santa Claus in our fellowship hall after our Christmas Eve service. Wonder if he'll be well enough to do it this year. Haven't heard anyone mention it, so kind of doubt it. Guess we'll all be "elves" to help hand out the Christmas goody bags.
It may just make him feel better! Sounds like a fun time! xo
Erin :)!
It is. It is a tradition in our church that we used to have the children in the church perform a play about Christmas, but we don't have any kids in the church now. I sang a solo, and then we just read scriptures and then sang a Christmas carol related to each passage last year, but rumor has it that Iris is writing a play for this year's service. It will be interesting what she comes up with, and how many people will be willing to perform it. Time will tell, I guess.
I LOVE your stories, dear girl! They remind me of times in my church. :)
Thanks, Erin.