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A verse and chorus tells the story of those in uniform:
And I will always do my duty
No matter what the price
I’ve counted up the cost
I know the sacrifice
Oh, and I don’t want to die for you
But if dyin’s asked of me
I’ll bear that cross with honor
‘Cause freedom don’t come freeI’m an American soldier, an American
By Toby Keith
Beside my brothers and my sisters
I will proudly take a stand
When liberty’s in jeopardy
I will always do what’s right
I’m out here on the front lines
sleep in peace tonight
American soldier, I’m an American soldier
These words ring true for those who love a Veteran, and for the younger generation of service men and women as they look to find ways to honor those who came before them. This is that story.
In an early Fourth of July celebration, a new Wall of Honor was dedicated at Victoria Landing and thirty Veterans and Veteran spouses were honored through a pinning ceremony. As each Veteran told their stories of service, it was inspiring to those who came to pin these heroes.
When St Francis Reflections looked to enlisted present and past military men and women to participate in the ceremony there were a number of young heroes who knew they should be a part. These young service men and women aligned with those 30 Veterans to listen to their stories of service and to provide a pin in recognition of their love of country. Airman First Class Adam Fall, Senior Airman Jared Hogarth, Staff Sergeant Josh Jackowski, and Technical Sergeant Daniel Inglis – all currently serving in the United States Air Force at MacDill Air Force Base took time to attend and pin these wonderful Veterans and the surviving spouses.
“It is such a humbling experience as a Veteran to honor those who served before me,” said Daniel Inglis.
Daniel voices the spirit of the present, acknowledging the past commitments of our military forces. He would not be where he is today without their hard work and fidelity. Each pin placed is a thank you from one generation to the next. His wife Chassity, also a Veteran of the United State Air Force shared, “taking part in this ceremony today reminds each Veteran and the surviving spouse that their service has not been forgotten – this was life changing for me. My heart and mind are guiding forces in my support for those who have gone before me in service to our country.”
With tears in her eyes, a newly pinned Veteran spouse replied, “I didn’t even do anything to deserve this.” Chassity thinks otherwise. She knows deeply the commitments and sacrifices that spouses and families make to support their loved one.
Every day we want to lift up our Veterans and those who love them. This fall we are asking each of you to join us in supporting Signs of Honor. We intend to place a Sign of Honor in the yards, windows and fences of those who have given of themselves to their country. No matter if you are young or old show them your sign of honor. Click here to send a message of honor to those in our community.
