Who is the American Soldier? Sailor? Marine? Airman? Who is so bold to write a check to the government which places nation above self? Brother and sister above self.

Here is their oath:

I, (state name), do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. (So help me God).”

Benjamin Franklin was asked in 1787 if we had a republic or a monarchy. His response, “A republic, if you can keep it.” And keeping it often falls upon the backs of those who serve, both here and abroad. The folks to whom you often say, “Thank you for your service.”

sgt breen

Sgt. Shannon Breen served three tours in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Soldiers are a breed from every class, race, ethnicity. No different from anyone else. People who chose to take up arms to defend the country, its traditions, and its values. To defend “home.” Family. When action is demanded, concentration is paramount and there is little time to think of anything but doing your best — for you and for those by your side. But then when quiet comes, there are thoughts of home. A LtC I flew with in Vietnam once said to me, “My idea of a good time involves brandy and a cigar.” I bet a lot of us felt like that when the sounds of battle quieted.

The Transylvania County Honor Guard honors fallen comrades at funeral services and community events throughout the year.

Families and friends also signed that oath. Those we don’t see raising their right hands. Those who feel pride but also trepidation. But they stand tall behind that which their son or daughter has chosen to do, knowing they have provided the country with another in the long line of defenders. How can you not think of them in the down times away from them? As they think of you.

Capt. David B. Grant, US Air Force, 1970

Betsy Grant and sons preparing a care package for their airman in Vietnam

The nation has been alive for almost 250 years. From the Revolutionary War to the mountains of Afghanistan to places of which you have never heard, soldiers have played a significant role shaping our country. And the men and women who do this hate defeat. That’s why they adapt, they work hard, they never quit and will never accept defeat. And that’s why they win. They have never really changed over the centuries. And they never will.

A USAF general I admire greatly had four “rules for commanders.” One of them was:

The nation has been alive for almost 250 years. From the Revolutionary War to the mountains of Afghanistan to places of which you have never heard, soldiers have played a significant role shaping our country. And the men and women who do this hate defeat. That’s why they adapt, they work hard, they never quit and will never accept defeat. And that’s why they win. They have never really changed over the centuries. And they never will.

 

WWII Veterans
Seated from left: Paul Spencer, Elizabeth Tilston, Bill Siniard.Standing from left: Pooch Pace, Tom McCrary, and Harold Wellington.

Rain is not a deterrent for the Transylvania County Honor Guard as Craig Adams assumes his show of respect at the fallen comrades monument on the courthouse lawn. Veterans Day 2022.

“Never tolerate any breach of integrity: When Airmen swear to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic, it means that lives will be put on the line if need be. It is an oath with an unlimited liability clause.”

Our military exhibits that rule every day. So salute those who came before as well as those who now walk the wall between good and evil. There is nothing they ask but your goodwill and prayers. And remembrance.