EDGEWATER -- After 66 years on May 29ht 2004 President George W. Bush officially dedicated the World War II Monument in Washington D.C. to honor what Tom Brokaw called the Greatest Generation: Veterans of World War II.
Since than the United States has fought in five wars: Korea, Vietnam, Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan, many lives have been lost, many more wounded with lost limbs and countless left with troubled minds.
Yes, it's time again to give thanks to all veterans of yesterday and today for the sacrifices to keep America free, They, the men and women who are now serving in the armed forces, deserve our gratitude, a salute and a thank you for serving to keep us free.
I am a World War II veteran. Once in a while I wear my WW II hat, especially when I travel. It does wonders at the airport where the flight attendants treat you special.
People stop and give me a hand shake and thank me for serving. In return, I thank them and tell them it was an honor to serve my country. America has given me a beautiful life and a beautiful family, of which I am very proud of; and the American dream to own my home.
To the millions of people who have served and who are now serving in the military and at home, and to thse who gave the supreme sacrifice, We the people say "Thank you."