By Jim Vines | jim.helpingveterans@gmail.org
As Christmas and the New Year approach, its time for reflection.
We must always remember that as “One Nation Under God,” the United States of America is far, far removed from the the turmoil and danger that is experienced around the world on a daily basis and that we are so very blessed to live where we do, especially during the holiday season. The closest we have come to that turmoil and danger were the events of Sept. 11, 2001.
For this wonderful gift of peace and freedom we have only one person to give thanks to – the American Soldier. Remember the men and women of our United States Armed Forces, past and present, that have protected us and given us this gift. It is a gift that can never be reciprocated in full and is only asked for remembrance in return.
Many American soldiers will not come home from their stations of turmoil and danger around the world and from their beds in hospitals as they recuperate from injuries, to be with families and friends for the holidays. The American soldier will stand steadfast and strong, continuing to protect us and fight for freedom in places around the world with conditions that we cannot begin to imagine.
Flags will unfortunately drape coffins on their arrival back to our soil with Mothers, Fathers, wives, sons, daughters, sisters and brothers feeling the great pain of loss. We can’t change the course that the Lord has paved however, our prayers can help the healing and watch over those that are still in harms way. May God Bless our troops around the world and their families and may He hold them safe in His arms until they come home again.
Take time to contact veterans organizations, hospitals and nursing facilities, the USO, Red Cross and other military sites for information regarding sending letters and gifts. Let’s never forget our men and women in harms way and those in the many hospitals, especially this holiday season when loneliness becomes their enemy.
AmVets welcomes new members Neil Reddick, Roberta Lathrop, Ben Lathrop,and Bailey Andrews.
A big “thank you” to Holiday Hills Country Club for hosting the AmVets Christmas Luncheon on Dec. 10.
Speak to you again next week.
Jim Vines is commander of AmVets Post 133 in Mineral Wells.
Veterans Corner
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