This next Wednesday we honor our nation’s military veterans from all of our wars and their service during peace. I believe all veterans should be honored for their sacrifice in body and spirit, but also for the memories they bear. Many have seen selfless service during times of natural disasters domestically and witnessed the effects and consequences of war close-up around the globe.

We don’t celebrate war, even when it is necessary and just. War is a consequence of man’s failure to resolve conflict. Sometimes, war is the only option left when defending the defenseless and overcoming genocide and dangerous threats from those who hate us and our freedoms.

We do celebrate those who step up to help because they are gifted by God with a call to serve. It seems almost certain that the next step in the fight against COVID-19 will be large scale vaccinations, coordinated and implemented by our military forces. We need to remain grateful that our land is blessed with such angels on our shoulders. 

I want to take this opportunity to thank the known and unknown veterans in my life. Thank you for your service! Thank you for your sacrifice. Thank you for defending our country and her people! And although Veterans Day celebrates those who served, let us pray for those who currently serve, especially those from our parish. So think about them often, and pray for our men and women in uniform. God bless America!