I’ve been out of town, so I am a bit tardy in wishing the United States Marine Corps a happy birthday. They have been protecting America and Americans since 1775 and continue to do so. We’re blessed to have such a force on our side and I’d hate to have them on the other side.

Today is Veterans Day and it’s time to thank veterans of every branch of the military (including the United States Coast Guard) for their service to our country. It matters not if they were drafted or volunteered, served in war or piece, or what they did in the service. Not every person in a modern military carries a gun, flies a plane, or shoots at an enemy.

No matter when, where, or what branch they served in, all gave up some part of their lives and free will to serve the rest of us.

Thank you.