This weekend, in many local communities, there were parades. Yes, we had all the usual things like marching bands from the local schools, floats with people waving to the crowds gathered, all that and so much more.
We also had veterans from each service; the people who did what had to be done to make our life what it is today. People who sacrificed their bodies and minds to do the job of our armed services and protect our country.
Being an Air Force brat, I have always known an appreciation of what the individual service members give up to do what so many take for granted.
Our Grand Marshal this year was an example of just how great and valuable our freedom is in America. He is 93 years old but still vibrant and patriotic. He served in two military wars before many of us were even born.
In addition to seeing duty in World War II and in the Korean War, as a member of the famed Tuskegee Airmen, he was also fighting a third war. As an African-American in the days of segregation, he had to battle here at home as well as across the globe. The changes he has seen in his lifetime.
In the end, all of his battles made life better for those who come behind him, myself included. He refused to accept praise upon himself alone but said he accepted the honor on behalf of all the veterans, past and present.
So, this week and every week, do what my husband did the other day at a big box hardware store. We were walking down the aisle and I was talking to him when he spotted a service member in uniform. He stopped in his tracks, shook the man's hand and said "Thank you for your service".
It's such a small price to pay for the many valuable freedoms we enjoy. Whenever you see a service member, stop and thank them for what they give up to allow you to be free. Remember, it's more than a parade !
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Deanna Early is a Nationally Licensed Mortgage Loan Originator at Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia. She is the residential loan originator for American National Bank and Trust. She provides home mortgages, construction loans and lot loans. She does both purchase and refinance loans.
Her website is www.DeannaEarly.com
Please contact her for your financing needs at (540) 721-2349 or by email at "earlyd@amnb.com"
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