The Cost Of Freedom

Freedom isn't free. That's:

-Not a contradiction of words.

-Not a catchy saying.

-Not something we should ever take for granted.

-Not something we should ever forget.

-Not something that we can ignore.

-Not something that teaches irresponsibility.

-Not something to take lightly.

-Not something that just anybody can purchase.

No, my friends, freedom comes with a great price that is still being paid today around this world.

-The great price of sons.

-The great price of daughters.

-The great price of husbands.

-The great price of wives.

-The great price of fathers.

-The great price of mothers.

Men and women everywhere who have laid down their lives for freedom. Some were drafted, some volunteered. Some didn't want to go, but went anyway because they knew it was their duty. Some died young, never achieving the goals set in their lives. Some were wounded so severely that they are still paying that price of pain today. Many who sacrificed will never receive a medal, never be acknowledged for their service, or find acceptance again in their ordinary world. Some will have to make adjustments to deal with adversity from others who attack them for the sacrifices for freedom they were willing to make. Some will never escape from combat, always reliving the endless cycle of doom and gloom they experienced in warfare.

Yet others will always salute the flag when the pass by it, respect the sacrifice of others who follow in their footsteps, and remember the price that was paid for the cause of liberty and freedom. They will honor their fallen comrades and will remember fondly the hugs of wives and kids who greeted them when they came home. Whether they get a medal or not for their sacrifice, to freedom they will always be heroes.

So to the thousands of vets who have served the cost of freedom with their blood, sweat, and tears, I salute you. God bless America and Happy Independence Day 2015!