Canada calls this day Remembrance Day. I like that. A day to remember. A day does not go by that I do not remember our soldiers fighting a war in a land far away. How many of us personnally know someone there right now? How many of us personnally know someone who has been injured? How many of us personnally know someone who has sacraficed their all? My husband and I both served so proudly. It was an honor to serve. But today I remember those in other wars, like this war because of their sacrifice, different only because of the times. I stand at attention, my right arm raises ever- so -slowly in front of my body passing my heart, the tips of my fingers coming to rest on my brow as I salute the men and women who have gone before me, and I salute the men and women who fought with me, and I salute the men and women who will come after me continuing the fight- still fighting for my freedom. Still sacrificing for my freedom. Thank you, the United States military - the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard - you are my heroes!
To the 4 military police that travelled a road in Mogadishu, Somalia - the same road my husband would travel - they lost their lives by a land mine - I will not forget
To Dale Shrader, in Somalia 1993, his blackhawk was shot down by an RPG. He and his co-pilot survived, his crew did not. He had to fight his way, while very badly injured, back to safety. His friendship with my husband and I is a blessing. - I will not forget
To Mark Hurst, United States Air Force, endured Army Ranger school, worked with Army Rangers in Afghanistan, convoy ambushed, his vehicle took an RPG. Mark, a very dear friend lost his eye in the attack - carries on today serving his country. I salute you Mark and I will never forget
To the men and women of the 15th Air Support Operations Weather Flight - you have served well. You supported 3rd Infantry Division during the invasion into Iraq, you still sacrifice. I am honored to have served with you and now as a civilian I am honored to work with you. I will never forget
To the men of Flight 146, 3/160th SOAR(A), the ultimate sacrifice in the hills of Afghanistan. I wear a silver bracelet with the names of these men enscribed - I will never forget.
With most humble regards,
Susan L. Bowers, TSgt, USAF (Retired)