Lucky Man

Veterans Day 2009- I am honored to be a combat veteran. To even be in the company of true warriors putting it all on the line. I am impressed when I meet a young soldier and the family that sends them away to fight enemies, foreign and in the US. I wish these young soldiers understood the price of a salute. When I am saluted by a soldier, I do not think of how glamourous it is to be an officer. I think of the fact that I owe him or her quality leadership, kindness and total commitment to making their career as a soldier the best I can make it. I will serve them with all I have and will never leave a fallen comrade. I will teach them, fight for them and kill for them if necessary. That is my job as a leader.

I am humbled that Israeli military officers take their oath at Masada. The symbolism is amazing as they know they will never back down or cower in the mission in which they are assigned. I see quality in our military, I see a respect for others, for country and to God. I love my experience in Iraq, I got own to what really mattered in my life. Not a big mortgage or Mercedes, it is about serving, accountability and protecting the soldiers in our command. As well as showing that we are honorable and paying attention to what matters. That lesson is not ever going to be lost on me-I am a changed man- for the better.

Every man dies eventually, few men live!- Wm Wallace. I don't know when my time is up, but I do know I have lived. I stepped into a place that makes many uncomfortable, twice. I know what hell looks like, I have been there. I would go again without hesitation! I will go to the edge of my comfort zone because that is where life truly begins. Being a soldier is not easy, but it is a joy. This is why I am honored to be a veteran. I am an American soldier!