Salute to our country and our veterans!!!

I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE
TO THE FLAG,

OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,

AND TO THE REPUBLIC,

FOR WHICH IT STANDS,

ONE NATION
UNDER GOD,

INDIVISIBLE,

WITH LIBERTYAND JUSTICE FOR ALL!

This came from my friend Alice, who stated so well what I wanted to say for today:

"As the Fourth of July approaches, now is not too early to begin to reflect on the MULTITUDE of freedoms we enjoy and, yes, even take for granted. We don't have these freedoms at no price. These freedoms have been bought through the blood, sweat, and tears of millions of fighters in every military service and all of their families and friends across the centuries. The debt we owe them can never be repaid.

All we can do is to honor them by respecting our country, our freedoms paid at a great price, and our flag. When was the last time you saw everyone stand at attention with hand over heart for the presentation of the colors and the singing of the National Anthem? Is a few moments of silence and attention too much to ask to say "Thank you" to those who died and whose families and friends have suffered terribly.

Please join me every time you see the Colors and hear the National Anthem by standing in respectful silent attention with hand over heart as we thank those who have given us so much at so high a price. I'll also have tears running down my face, and you can join me there too."

Thanks, Alice. I so totally agree with you. I can't say the pledge of allegiance, sing our anthem, or see a military cemetery without getting tears in my eyes. Thank you to every VETERAN still living, and for those no longer with us. You each are the GREATEST!!!