A simple, non-controversial Thank You

The most prevalent feature of our national discourse these days seems to be “controversy”. Controversy can sponsor discussion and create new pathways that move people closer together, or it can be a tool that is usurped by malicious malcontents to hide the truth and divide the people. This past week we have seen both examples. On Saturday, however, we had an opportunity to put controversy aside, if only briefly, and simply join together in appreciation of an institution that has made it possible for our country and way of life to endure for the past 250 years. On June 17, 1775, an army was formed in the American colonies with the doubtful objective and expectation of overcoming one of the most powerful military forces in the world. The United States had yet to be officially formed as a country, but the battles for independence from Great Britain were already underway. Can you imagine the will and dedication required of these rag-tag, untrained patriots simply to dream of independence, much less to risk all they had to go against such impossible odds? That inspiration sustained the fight against the British through 1781 when the war was essentially over and won. From that point forward, the Army of the United States of America has been the shield and sword of democracy. Through more than two centuries, this fighting force has loyally projected power whenever asked in the name of the USA and in support of the gift of freedom. This weekend was our chance to say thank you to the Army and all those who have served, are currently serving, or will serve tomorrow. On Saturday evening this parade of military history, of thousands of active-duty, reserve, and veteran military, as well as the long line of impressive military armament and equipment both on the ground and in the sky, was a long overdue affirmation of the respect, gratitude, and esteem this country has and owes to the soldiers of the United States Army. The role of this organization and the innumerable acts of courage, commitment and sacrifice are linked directly with that day 250 years ago when the guardian of the dream took shape.

There are those who feel it necessary to criticize such an event, I would only say to them that thanks to the duty and the sentinel of the U.S. Army and our other military organizations, you have the guarantee and the right to express your disapproval if you so choose. Incredibly, this past weekend was the first nationally recognized event of appreciation offered to the men and women of the U.S. Army since the victory of World War II, seventy-nine years ago. During the Revolutionary period, John Adams wrote to the citizens-patriots, ”You will never know how much it cost the present generations to preserve your freedom. I hope you will make good use of it!” That is an admonition we should all observe today.