Laws without enforcement are mere words, in the course of human history. International laws and treaties tend to be superseded by fickle national interests…we share this globe with many conflicting national interests. Some have promised to bury us.
I was born and grew up in the Cold War era 0f 1945-1990. I hid under a school desk, many a time, shielding myself from the impending atomic blast. Though that defensive posture lacked…the threat was real.
The only thing that keeps you safe at night is a uniformed American. Some wear badges and patrol our streets. Some patrol our waters on Coast Guard ships. You can sleep well because they never sleep. Uniformed Americans have pledged their life to stand between you and harms way.
One week in early 1967, the 2/501st Parachute Infantry Regiment served as the tip of the spear, so that every American could sleep safely. We were on highest alert, to protect Americans and American interests anywhere on the globe. All leaves were cancelled, there were no passes, all members of the unit were restricted to the area. We were the first unit out to enforce the peace…anywhere. The planes where fueled and on standby on the runway of Ft. Campbell. With Air Force refueling capabilities, there was no limit to our range.
Reality hits when you empty your foot locker and pack all personal belongings, tagged to your home of record. I never opened my foot locker; it was always ready for inspection. I lived out of my wall locker. We would all have to reorganize after this week. My duffle bag was packed with all nonessential government issue. What remained was the combat gear readied for immediate deployment.
The might of the American military would follow us. That particular week, we were the tip of the spear. On that week…nothing happened. The saying goes, ‘Those that wait also serve.’ The following year, in an obscure town called Da Lat, I would serve again in similar capacity, and things did happen.
In this Thanksgiving season I would implore you to do two things. First, look up with a thankful heart to God. Second, please express thanks to an American in uniform. Although they may not be perfect, I can guarantee you that life would be your worst nightmare without them.
Every week in every year, there is a unit standing ready as the tip of the spear. Thank you men and women for being in harms way. I am safe because you wear the uniform. Where ever you are…you hold your place in the spear.
Impressive
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