A veteran?s take of ?Holiday Cheer?As another holiday season approaches in our little corner of the world, we look forward to the warmth and love of family that comes with it. Food and family, gifts and reunions will fill our lives very soon. In this time we should try to put politics and opinions aside to think of those who will miss the holiday season this year.In 2003, we have more members of our community who have gone to serve their country in this latest war. They are doing their part to keep all of our families safe. The greatest cost is to them, their families, spouses, and children. The history of the United States is filled with holidays like this. Holidays with empty seats at the table and children that cannot understand why dad or mom is not there for them. Our servicemen have gone to all the corners of the globe to defend freedom and liberate countless people. They have given precious time out of their lives to protect their country.The war on terror is a new war against a new and more dangerous enemy than we have ever faced. This enemy fades in and out like a shadow on a cloudy day and loves to target civilians. The targets they like don?t have defenses and are filled with the sounds of children. This enemy is vicious and ruthless and just a handful of them can wreak havoc and bring fear to our country. The current crop of soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines are an all volunteer group, well equipped and trained, and very proud of their mission and how they are accomplishing it. During a recent interview with one of the survivors of the downed Chinook helicopter, the interviewer seemed to try to lead the soldier to make critical remarks about this war. She was obviously shocked when the young man pledged his support and spoke only of getting back to his platoon, his military family. He was a picture of this generation. The question has been asked when our servicemen have showed their character, "Where are they getting these guys?"As families gather and dinners are cooked this year we must realize that our safe holiday dinner, warm houses, and free lives come from one place only. Our freedoms are brought to us courtesy of those that have spent a holiday in the desert or the Argonne Forest, the Chosin Reservoir or the Mekong Delta. We owe everything to the men and women of the military, past and present. We also owe the parents, spouses, and children who watched them go to serve and defend their country.As you give thanks and prayers for your families and blessings this holiday season, take time to include in your prayers all who have allowed us to live this life we enjoy. They are one of our greatest blessings.Curtis M. Hendel
