A Message from Lee

Dear Folks,

Like many of you, I was glad to have a day off on Memorial Day. Of course, when I was on active duty and even sometimes in the Reserves, Memorial Day involved ceremonies and a day of activities around remembering those lost while serving. So, those were in my mind while doing other things.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery, Normandy, Biloxi National Cemetery, the Viet Nam Wall all remind us of the price so many have paid to safeguard our nation and freedoms. Yes, the armed forces and their budgets are political issues often, sometimes the public and/or the service members wonder if their service is being used wisely and justifiably, and Gold Star families suffer a terrible loss. Still, we can and should honor those who died while serving.

While serving as a military Chaplain, I was ministering to folks who volunteered (these were not drafted) to go into harm’s way if asked. Helping them deal with the challenges of being sent off, the strain on family life, and even reaching some resolution about what they were doing and “why?” was the pastoral side of chaplaincy. It was a privilege to know so many who were such remarkable people. May God take loving care of those who gave their lives in faithful service.

Peace

Lee