On this Thankful Thursday, we celebrate the veterans who have served protecting our country and the freedoms we all too often take for granted. Iris of Grace Alone has chosen this theme and it's perfect timing since yesterday was Veteran's Day.
I grew up during the sixties; a time of Woodstock and anti-war rallies. It was such a difficult time for veterans who returned home and weren't treated as heroes.
My brother Steve joined the Navy in 1969 since his draft number was low and he knew it was inevitable.
My cousin Ken was in the Army and was shipped off to Vietnam. When he returned home, his wife had left him and he lived with us for more than a year. I remember his first Fourth of July. He jumped every time a firecracker went off. It was a very traumatic time of readjustment.
I'm so grateful for the sacrifices so many in the military have made leaving behind their families to protect us and serve our country. I pray for their safety and for a day when there will be no more wars. However, I realize that will not happen this side of eternity.
I found this song by Casting Crowns called Who Am I (Tears of War). It's a tribute to those in the military.
Thank you for your service to this country and for the sacrifices you've had to make. I am thankful for each one of you.
You can visit Iris on Grace Alone to join in or visit other participating blogs on this Thankful Thursday.
Beautiful thoughts written for our country and military, Debbie.
ReplyDeleteAlways praying!
Mary
I too remember the 60's and the poor veterans of the Viet Nam war. It was really such a shame. They all deserve our respect and thanks. Have a great day Deb
ReplyDeleteA lovely tribute. May God keep them safe.
ReplyDeleteoh, i'm so sorry about what happened to your cousin ken. that's so painful. my heart goes to men and women who go through pain in their marriages.
ReplyDeletei love this song of the casting crowns. i have this on my ipod.
God bless you, debbie.
What happened to your cousin is very sad. I wish there would be no wars either but like you said it's impossible this side of eternity.
ReplyDeleteI've always loved this song by Casting Crowns.
The affects of war are truly sad. My dad was in Vietnam and he is still dealing with it. War is a painful thing and I am truly grateful for those who have served and those who are currently serving. Thank you & have ablessed TT!
ReplyDeleteThat was wonderful Debbie. I know my nephew who did two tours in Iraq still reacts to loud sounds as well.
ReplyDeleteGod bless our military (and their families).
Love,
Beth
Precious Sister, thank you for sharing your heart and your family and I stand thankful with you for all who have served and still serve and my heart goes out to all who have gone through trauma in any degree as a result.
ReplyDeleteI love you.
Maybe we can learn from our mistakes:) (there is always hope right?:) Great song, perfect fit:)
ReplyDeleteDebbie,
ReplyDeleteThis a a beautiful tribute! My grandfather served in WWII and my stepdad served in the U.S.Air Force.
We live next door to a Marine who served in Iraq and he HATES the 4th of July and my son LOVES to shoot off fireworks so I always send him a text before he starts shooting them off bc he does this year round. My heart hurts for all they have had to see and experience and I am soo grateful for their service and sacrifice!
Bless you my friend
Great post. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteWhat a blessing to read your post this morning! I love the song too.
ReplyDeleteHave a wonderful week!
Debbie:
ReplyDeleteYou just said it perfectly! And the song brought tears. A really good reminder of the price of our freedom in this land, and a nudge to pray for our military and their families. I know that I forget to do that... Thank you!
Wow this was incredibly moving. Thank you for sharing this Debbie.
ReplyDeleteI think that many of the vets that returned from Viet Nam had so much difficulty adjusting was because they didn't receive the hero's welcome that they should have.
Dear Debbie,
ReplyDeleteIt's always so easy to climb the barricades and cry "I'm against" or "I'm pro." Be the issue war, abortion or whatever.
I like peace, I love peace, but I see that sometimes one has to fight for peace too.
Those who literally lay down their lives to defend what they believe in, no doubt should be rightfully honored.
Joh.15:13Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
From Felisol
Wow Debbie, Your post brings home the reality of it. I grieve for your family and for all those who must endure. I praise God that He instills valor and courage and purpose in our men and women.
ReplyDeleteI often pray for their safety. Thank you for this post. I love you my sister. Hugs.
Debbie, this song is beautiful...I always love hearing it. Thanks for the wonderful tribute to our veterans...I also grew up in the
ReplyDelete60's and remember the disgraceful way our servicemen were treated when they returned. My cousin's brother-in-law came home a mess...it was so very sad. The Bible tells us there will be wars til the end, so you are so right that we will suffer with them til we meet the Lord. We can only pray for the men and women that bravely and willingly serve to protect us, that they find God's peace and comfort in the midst of battle.
God bless,
Mary
Thanks for this lovely tribute.
ReplyDeleteIn Oz the ANZACs are kept alive through their grandchildren but in Norway you don't here much about remembering the war. Norwegians seem to want to forget. In fact on the 50th year anniversary of the end of WW2 remembrance has nearly all but stopped. It is odd to me but Norwegians suffered a different side of the war as they were invaded and occupied and now must live side by side with the countries who once overpowered them.
ReplyDelete