Posted 11/10/2005
Defenders Of Freedom: The scene above reminds us of the sacrifices our servicemen and women make to preserve the liberties we enjoy. More than ever, those who've worn the uniform deserve our gratitude.
On Veterans Day, cities and towns all across the land hold parades and rallies to honor family and friends who have served. This year, the occasion falls on the day after the 230th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps.
It was on Nov. 10, 1775, that the Second Continental Congress authorized the formation of two battalions of Continental Marines. At that time, Americans feared the powerful British forces intent on enforcing the oppressive edicts of a far-away parliament.
Today is a time of anxiety, too, as we face a new kind of enemy intent on killing the innocent citizens of Western democracies in their own homelands. And the soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen of today share the same spirit expressed by Gen. George Washington upon his appointment as commander in chief in 1775.
Washington pledged that "as Congress desire it, I will enter upon the momentous duty, and exert every power I possess in their service, and for support of the glorious cause."
This year is also the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II, in which more than 400,000 Americans lost their lives in the glorious cause of stopping fascist expansionism. More than two decades ago, on the 40th anniversary of D-Day, President Reagan asked the assembled veterans at Pointe du Hoc, Normandy:
"What impelled you to put aside the instinct for self-preservation and risk your lives to take these cliffs?"
He knew the answer.
"You all knew that some things are worth dying for," Reagan said. "All of you loved liberty. All of you were willing to fight tyranny, and you knew the people of your countries were behind you."
The glorious cause continues to be worth fighting for today, and America's troops, and our 25 million veterans, should never doubt for one moment that their country is behind them
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