United We Roll at Stardust Radio

It is with too great of speed that we are saying goodbye to so many incredible men and women who have served our country from World War II to the present. In the air, on the ground, on the sea, in the medical units and even now in cyberspace as technology becomes bigger each day.

I believe we owe a debt of gratitude to David Brokaw, as he surely obtained the attention of millions of Americans when he came out with his first book, The Greatest Generation. I often think of the Heroes of that time period as the Silent Generation, as they kept so many of their stories to themselves, often not speaking of any memories unless perhaps with others who also served during that period. Otherwise, many kept their war memories in a place where they would not take their loved ones and kept it locked away inside. These are the Heroes who are slipping away from us now, too many without the acknowledgement that they so deserve.

The changes that have occurred over recent years have surely been a blessing for our military members and families. There is the technology that allows troops and loved ones to keep in close touch. And the internet that allows those who wish to share their thoughts to do so online with a journal or "blog", several that allow us to follow along with members on their deployments and other areas. The ability for us on Stardust Radio to talk with deployed members and share their experiences with our listeners each week is an incredible opportunity for so many Americans to learn so much about our Heroes of Freedom - what they do and who are these very special people. It never ceases to amaze me at the maturity, the dedication and the desire to give that these young Americans possess. Yet, I believe that this has been true of most all who have served. And I am so proud to see our nation reaching out to our Heroes today with words of thanks in person, in letters and in care packages.

Let us remember to keep that same momentum of gratitude going for all who have served. There are many ways to reach out to our Veterans, those who stood guard over our freedom long ago and those who have just shed their uniforms and ways also to help their families. The fighting continues on and that means our Wounded Warriors and their families need us, too. If this sounds like a lot to do on top of our other daily activities, it takes only a moment to realize that without these men and women who have given us the gift of freedom, we would not have the other daily activities.

If you need to pump your adrenalin a bit, just put on some of the music that is written and/or sung by Americans who really "get it". Just a few to mention out of so many ....
Darryl Worley and "POW 369" should hit home for all of us along with Dr Sam's beautiful song called "Before You Go". Michael Chain's "Spirit of the Free" and Lee Greenwood's "The Great Defenders", not to mention his outstanding song "God Bless The USA". For those like myself who also love music performed by tenors, there is an album by the Ten Tenors called "Here's To The Heroes" and the lead song of that same name will melt your heart. There are so very many beautiful and inspirational songs that are dedicated to our country and those who have kept her safe and free for the rest of us. Just browse the lists that are available online.

Turn off the TV or the news for a bit and listen to music that will awaken that part of your heart that is proud to be American and is ready to reach out to those who give us this gift of freedom. Tune in to Stardust for a great variety of music at www.stardustradio.com and click on the listen Live button. Pick up some patriotic poetry or reading to share with your family, even if only one poem is shared each night.

If you need one to start you off, here is a great poem by an unknown author.....

THANKS TO THE AMERICAN WARRIORS

From the colonist, who rebelled,
to the soldier of today,
My thanks, be to you,
I know not what else to say.

Since the words I do not have,
to give the tribute that is due,
So a simple heartfelt thanks,
sincerely I give to you.

Thanks to our American heroes,
whose devotion is second to none,
Whose courage and braveness alone
caused many battles to be won.

We have beaten the forces of evil
and carried our flag far and wide,
Because of our American Warriors,
our hearts are filled with pride,

Only because of you and the price
you willingly did pay,
Only because of you,
Old Glory still flies today!

Let us all appreciate our American heritage and those who have and who do protect it each and every day. Fly Old Glory from your home so that every Veteran who passes by will feel your thanks for their sacrifices. Make some time in your family schedule to get together and take a basket to a VA hospital or send a care package overseas, write out a couple of cards for a Vet and a deployed member. You will be surprised at how good you will feel and your thoughtfulness will mean more than you can know to those who receive your gifts.

Thank You!

May God Bless You All & May God Bless America