Greetings from your Chaplain:
(I pray God’s richest blessings on you and yours this day)

As we reflect on Independence Day, July 4, 1776, many things come to mind. Our nation was founded on tyranny and we came to this country to escape religious persecution. Taxation without representation was cause for war. The Revolutionary War was followed closely by the War of 1812, the Civil War which turned brother against brother, and then the Spanish-American War.

World War I was The War to End All Wars. We weren’t very successful with that theory. World War II came along and it was up to The Greatest Generation to win this one. Korea, Vietnam, Grenada, The Gulf War…Kuwait…..the beat goes on. Iraq and Afghanistan…….what’s next?

We have thousands of young men and women deployed around the world today and in the ships at sea…..and under the sea……and in the air.

We older warriors live with our memories…..some good, some bad. Now our freedom and security depend on these young lions…and lionesses who give so selflessly. As Richard Lovelace wrote in a poem entitled, “To Lucasta, going to the Wars”. “I could not love thee, dear, so much, loved I not honor more”.

As we pause and reflect on the meaning of freedom, let’s say,
“Thanks” to those who defend it!

For God and country.

                                       Harry W. Brantley, MS, MA
                                             Master Chief Yeoman
                                             U.S. Navy (Retired)