Today I would like to thank every person who has served in the military for your service. Some volunteered, some were drafted but our nation and our world has survived because of those who served in all ranks and branches of the military. Some fought in wars they were opposed to, and under leadership whose views were not their own. Yet military discipline sacrifices individual opinions for the effectiveness of the military and the good of the nation.
My father and four of his brothers served in the military. My mother had six brothers who served in the military. I have two nephews, countless cousins, and close friends who served in the military. Their sense of mission and commitment to duty are admirable traits that I believe have helped to strengthen this nation.
My father and some of my uncles served in the military when all branches of the military were racially segregated. I listened to many of my father’s stories about his experiences in Fort Benning, Georgia and the hatred he experienced on and off base. I wondered how they endured and continued to serve their nation with dedication and commitment. As I listened to his stories, I realized that there was something powerful about the discipline, order, and chain of command which protected them.
Whatever your views may be politically, there are privileges and freedoms we all experience because of the dedicated service of the men and women in our military services. Thank you for your service!