We had been planning the launch of this program, which we call "Books for Our Heroes," for almost a year. Thanks to the support of the Voluntary Services Director Earl Johnson and his team at Coatesville, the experience was as joyful and thrilling as it was humbling. While I enjoyed the chance to write a personal message for each veteran, my greatest thrill was to look into the eyes of these wounded warriors, shake their hands and thank them for their bravery and sacrifice in the line of duty. In fact, there were times when I almost broke down in tears.
As the proud son of a career sailor, I can appreciate the valor and sacrifice of these wonderful people. Incredibly, I was humbled by the fact that every one of these vets were appreciative of our gesture of giving them a good book to read. I now wonder if I would have been so gracious knowing that I would have to live out the rest of my life with perhaps a missing arm or leg, or knowing I would need almost constant medical treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
The moral of this story is simple. Honor our veterans, not just on military holidays such as Memorial Day or Veterans Day, but everyday by donating your time, talent and resources. We owe them a lot, much more than we realize. They are the ones who keep America strong and guarantee the freedoms we enjoy today and for generations to come.
God bless each and every one of them!
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