Veterans Day
By Brenda Hyde
Veterans Day is a day to honor those who have served our
country. The Veteran's Day official website says:
"Veterans
Day is largely intended to thank LIVING veterans for their service,
to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security
are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who
served - not only those who died - have sacrificed and done their
duty."
This is an important statement. Veterans day is for ALL
veterans. My Uncle Harrison lost an arm in World War II, but he
would have been the first to tell you he wasn't special. He was an
honorable and good man and he knew that every soldier who has
served in the military sacrificed something. His sacrifice may
have been physically more than some, but there are all kinds of
sacrifices. The media is quick to point out that soldiers in our
armed forces aren't perfect. However, unless you've been in the
dirt and grime, a stranger in a country far from home, away from
family and friends, then don't judge. How or why they got there is
not important. What's important is that we acknowledge the
commitment they made to serve our country, not knowing what
would lay ahead of them. This commitment alone is courageous.
Canada and Australia observe their Remembrance Day on
November 11, and Great Britain observes Remembrance Day
on the Sunday that is nearest to November 11. Let all of us
remember and honor those who served our countries this
week as our countries observe these days.
Taps was composed by Major General Daniel Butterfield during
the civil war. It's been traditionally played to signal the day was
over, and to honor a fallen soldier. I think the words also express
to me what I hope for every veteran-that they may have a peaceful
sleep each night and that God will watch over them always, whether
at home or at war.
Fading light dims the sight,
And a star gems the sky, gleaming bright.
From afar drawing nigh -- Falls the night.
Day is done, gone the sun,
From the lake, from the hills, from the sky.
All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.
Then good night, peaceful night,
Till the light of the dawn shineth bright,
God is near, do not fear -- Friend, good night.
About the author
Brenda Hyde is a mom to three, wife, writer and Regional Recipe
editor here at Standbesideher.com. She lives in the rural midwest
with her family and three cats.
