To the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed forces.

A debt of thanks is owed to the fallen. They are the proof that what is forged in steel is also bought in blood and survived only by God's grace.

A extra special thank you goes to their families and brothers in arms.

Thank you to the mother's and fathers who taught honor, dignity, respect, loyalty, and the value of freedom. You gave us a proud American ready to do battle to defend this rare gift, not because it was easy, not because there were no risk, but because it was the right thing to do.

Thank you to the wives and children. Let it be known the memory of your loved on is a great one. They are a respected hero who will always be cherished, honored, and remembered. Even when great distance kept you from hearing their voice, feeling their touch, playing a game of catch, after church on Sunday. Your love and support gave them strength to carry out their mission, to be all they could, do all they could. May you find solace in knowing that their sacrifice was so you, and generations after you can know the freedoms that brought your family together.

A Thank you to the soldiers who served with them who came home safe or continue in their stead. Thank you for all those times you stepped in and allowed these heroes to spend one more day safe, in your care, and on defense of our nation. Thank you for continuing their fight, for staying safe, as they too laid down their life to protect you, to ensure that your freedom was secure. They were never more proud to serve with anyone than they were to do battle at elbows reach with their brothers and sisters in arms.

War is hell on all fronts but in the same blood that birthed this great land, our fighting men and women have taken up the call and weather defending against attacks on our soil, taking it to the enemies of America, or liberating other oppressed nations. You stood tall and we will never forget what that means. We will not forget the price you paid or the challenges you face. We will welcome home our fighting men and women, we will hold a place of honor for those who fell while carrying out their duties, and we will hold our freedom sacred.

Andy Anderson
Yuma AZ USA