Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Memorial Day: A Tribute to Military Women


Going to war is never an easy decision to make; especially when we have to put our sons and daughters on the front lines to fight it.  In the history of our nation, war has been a part of it.  From the American Revolutionary War to the War on Terror in Afghanistan and Iraq, our nation has lost 1,321,612 of our sons and daughters.  It is heart wrenching to hear the news that your child, husband, dad, wife, mother, son, daughter, grandchild will no longer eat at the table to enjoy a meal, laughter, and conversation.  War is brutal.  It rips nations a part and it drives families deep into mental chaos wondering if their loved one will return home. 

Within the pages of our history, men and women have braved the elements of war.  They stood bravely on the battlefields and fought for a nation whom they loved, admired, and cherished.  They fought for freedom that they themselves may not have fully understood in its totality, but nevertheless it was important to fight and preserve.   

To answer the call to fight takes courage, trust, and an allegiance to God and country.  To say yes to fight and defend the values of our forefathers, families, and fellow citizens takes a wiliness and determination.  To leave the comforts of home to travel to a land where there are no guarantees of returning home takes love and passion. 

War doesn’t just call men, but women as well.  War is no respecter of persons.  It takes a “United” States to win a war.  So often, men are the headline news of war causalities.  However, women have had their share of causalities, too.  According to the Army Times, sixteen women died in combat in Vietnam and in the Persian Gulf, six female soldiers died.  According to the Korean Wall Educator, eighteen women died in the Korean War.  And, according to the History and Collections:  Women in Military Service for American Memorial Foundation, one hundred forty three women have died in the war on terrorism in Afghanistan and Iraq.  While the numbers are nowhere near that of men, one death is still a tragedy.  The lost of a mother, a wife, a daughter is still devastating to the one losing her. 

Women have played a vital role throughout the history of our nation and throughout the history of the world.  In Judges 4, there was a Judge by the name of Deborah.  She was a mighty warrior.  She led a broken down Israelite Army to victory.  It isn’t the gender that should make the difference; rather it is the resolve and dedication of each person to make a better nation that should matter mostly. 

While I am grateful for every military member, this year I am especially proud of the women who have fought for our nation and have given their lives to help preserve our freedom.  Although some women may not be directly in the line of fire on the battlefield, her service to our nation doesn’t go unnoticed.  Her persistence in praying and taking care of the home and supporting in ways many will never know is greatly appreciated.  Thank you ladies for having courage to be protectors of our great nation we call the United States of America!  You will never be forgotten.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian


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