It was early morning on the west coast and as I heard the news on the radio, I told my wife, “I think we’ve been attacked.” As the details came across the news, I was sickened to find out that I was correct. We have dear friends in New York – both of who were in the City when the plane struck the World Trade Center – and we agonized for days before getting a call through to them and finding out they were okay.

Several days into the nightmare my grief turned to absolute anger and I called the Air Force recruiter and asked what the chances were of my coming back into the service. He very graciously replied, “Sir, you’ve paid your dues and while I’m sure we could use your talents and skills, you’re a few years past our cutoff date, but thank you for your willingness and there’s no doubt in my mind that you are still one fine leader – I would have been proud to serve in your command.”

My heart is still heavy for those who have lost a family member. I ride with the Patriot Guard and while I detest this war and hate having to bury our sons and daughters – I am proud to strap leather and escort our heroes to their final rest. I am humbled to stand behind a military honor guard as they give a 21 gun salute and the bugler wails that mournful tune and we place a precious loved one in the ground. I like it when it rains as it washes away the tears that come freely to a lot of us old guys. I’ve been blessed to hug a lot of parents and hope that our sharing in their grief lightens their load.

My sincerest prayers for and heartfelt thank to those of you on this site who have served as well as the folks of those still in harm’s way – God’s speed – and may they come home safely and soon.

Thanks, Melloyello – you’ve made my afternoon by starting this thread.

Regards All,
Glenn