Tuesday, November 11, 2008

The Eleventh Hour of the Eleventh Day of the Eleventh Month

I'm very proud to be a veteran of the U.S. Army. I'm so grateful to my fellow veterans especially those in my family. I learned much from the good men and women who lead me. There's an adage that there are only three ways to lead: by example, by example and by example.

Also, my thoughts turn to my nephew, Little Dave, who is deploying to Iraq later this month. Godspeed Little Dave. You are a credit to your country.

4 comments:

chickelit said...

Hugs to you and yours today Ruth Anne.

Ruth Anne Adams said...

Back atcha, Chickenlittle!

Peggy Gero DaValt said...

And...thanks to all of you for your service to the US.

One of the most moving ceremonies for me was at Dad's funeral where they did the flag folding and gave Mom the flag. Dad was as are Ruth and David, US Army.

I couldn't remember the exact quote so I found this on the Internet -

The folded flag is then presented as a keepsake to the next of kin or an appropriate family member. Each branch of the Armed Forces uses its own wording for the presentation …

U.S. Air Force: "On behalf of the President of the United States, the Department of the Air Force, and a grateful nation, we offer this flag for the faithful and dedicated service of (Service Member's rank and name)."

U.S. Army: "This flag is presented on behalf of a grateful nation and the United States Army as a token of appreciation for your loved one's honorable and faithful service."

U.S. Coast Guard: "On behalf of the President of the United States, the Commandant of the Coast Guard, and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's service to Country and the Coast Guard."

U.S. Marine Corps: "On behalf of the President of the United States, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's service to Country and Corps."

U.S. Navy: "On behalf of the President of the United States and the Chief of Naval Operations, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's service to this Country and a grateful Navy."

If the next of kin has expressed a religious preference or belief, add: "God bless you and this family, and God bless the United States of America."

I think that's appropriate for today. And Dad would smile.

Northern Light said...

Thank you for your service; it is because of those who serve that we often take for granted our many blessings in this blessed land.