Freedom is not free. So it goes as the fallen soldiers cry out from the sacred ground. Young…really, kids fought for the country. They had dreams and plans, and goals. The military was supposed to be a national service, and after a long life. It turned out to be the end of life for many.

MJ’s dad and uncle, and my dad served in World War II. They all returned home…changed. Vietnam was my War as a youngster. My cousin served, and many whom I knew were drafted. Yes, in those halcyon years, the choice to fight was not yours but the government’s. The rich and powerful found ways around the requirement, so the War was fought with working-class kids. Fifty thousand soldiers died. There was no welcome home parade nor a brass band when the living returned home. Cat calls and hate greeted the scarred soldiers from their countrymen.

Soldiers return in mass with PTSD and missing limbs from our modern Wars. Afghanistan was the longest War in our history. Our precious kids trusted their political leaders and served courageously. They deserve our respect and reverence.

Many sit in comfort and safety due to the sacrifice of kids who had not started their families or their lives. Who could the fallen have become if it had not been for War? What gifts they could have given us! They gave the ultimate gift…their lives…