Warriors and Poets

We are all so very fortunate to live in a country where individuals are willing to give all so the rest of us can sleep peacefully at night. In times like these that we are now living in, how often are the sacrifices of those in the military simply taken for granted by those who are not directly affected by the war? May we never forget that 'freedom isn't free'.

I am so absolutely proud of any enlisted man or woman or military academy student, who, in this current political climate, pretty much knows they are going to Iraq or Afghanistan, and chooses to enlist nonetheless. To the sons and daughters of America, those who have been here for hundreds of years, and those who have been here only a couple of generations, I am humbled by your sacrifice to serve your
country. I thank You very much

Why was the word "requited" used instead of "required"?
"At West Point, cadets are requited to take English 102, a literature course."
Steven C. Ballinger Portland, OR

Why was the word "requited" used instead of "required"?
"At West Point, cadets are requited to take English 102, a literature course."
Steven C. Ballinger Portland, OR

God says today He says many will have visions and I will raise up people like C.S. Lewis that shall come and write books about Christ and there shall be a fulfilling of so many books in Christian literature. I am raising up writers, I am raising up prophets I am raising them up to be news anchors for the media shall show My glory.

www.jcudell.blogspot.com

I am a Naval Academy Graduate (Systems and Naval Engineering) from many years ago. Literature was then and remains today a foundation course there; including the ancients, history, philosophers young and old, even existentialists (hear it? that loud gasp from the Ivy League "schools" that I would speak what they probably believe to be lies?) From such courses and their numerous required research and written articles there-about, come humanitarianism, a deeper understanding of the causes and effects of war, the strengths and weaknesses of all forms of government, and knowledge of the necessity of being a leader for moralism, love of country, love and trust of individuals, and if not love, then recognition and understanding of our enemies. From combat tours, I have learned that my enemies may often be more honorable than many fellow countrymen and my government for whom I have fought...and shame is their reward while satisfaction and a sense of honor are mine. So also is my understanding that none of us that have fought a war or wars could possibly hate it more than those who shirk their responsibility to give their share of contribution to their nation and those willing to fight in their stead. My career in the Navy allowed me to visit over 40 countries and none of them can hold a candle to our United States of America precisely because ideas are free, our citizens are free to study and present them, and people may do so without courtesy, although at their own peril.

Thank you for this story. Hopefully, it may become a seed that will flourish in the soil of Democracy for all and courteous study and exchange of ideas.

Thanks for this story. It is down to earth and realistic. I wihs you would have more stories like this one.