It is almost heartbreaking that each year we set aside a single day to honor the men and women who’ve served in our nation’s armed forces. In truth we should be grateful every day for their service to this great country. Frequently we forget that their profession is most necessary and that fill it with little or no thanks. They do it because it is right and because they believe.
This Veteran’s Day holds a special significance for me, one I’ll never forget. Not long ago I received a late night phone call from one of my best friends in the world. He, like many of my guild mates, was a former soldier. He had honorably served in combat in Iraq and completed his enlistment. The call was to let me, his friend and guild leader, know that his name had been pulled from the inactive reserve list. He was going back. His life had to be put on hold; interrupted once more by war. By the time this message is posted he’ll soon be leaving our borders to lead men once again in Baghdad.
It is my greatest hope that my friend goes there knowing how much we appreciate his service and sacrifice. I’ve lead men and women for years in business and on MMOs. He has lead men and women in combat. I’ve achieved great things in a fictional world. He has done so in reality. He has always been kind to me and sung my praises but in reality, he is the hero. I just play one online.
Joe my friend, I love you. You’re one of the greatest people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting and I wish you a safe and swift deployment. We’ll miss you terribly but take along with you our prayers and good wishes. We look forward to your return and a time that we may all meet up once more and drink to good health, happiness and beautiful woman.
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