Tribute to U.S. Army on 238th Birthday; and Remembering Dad

Did you know that today marks the 238th birthday of the United States Army?

Military service to America is one of the most honorable types of federal service – if not the most honorable. We all owe a huge debt of gratitude to the brave and courageous Army servicemen and women nationwide and around the world.

The U.S. Army has protected and defended America from World Wars to the current War on Terrorism. Our military deserves the highest praise and respect.

Paying Tribute

Many soldiers put their lives on the line every day for America. Some have made the ultimate sacrifice by dying in the line of duty. Others have left family and friends behind for years to serve on battlefields in foreign lands.

The Army has always upheld and fortified the fundamental American principles of democracy and freedom worldwide.

According to the Department of Defense:

• “Two hundred thirty-eight years ago, our nation’s leaders established the Continental Army, beginning a rich heritage of successfully defending this great country and her citizens.
• Today, we celebrate the continued strength, professionalism and bravery of our ready and resilient Soldiers in the all-volunteer force.
• Our Soldiers remain Army Strong with a lifelong commitment to our core values and beliefs.
• Following more than 12 years of war, the Army remains committed to the readiness, training and advancement of the Total Army through the Army initiatives: Ready and Resilient, The Army Profession and Soldier for Life.
• This 238th birthday commemorates America’s Army – Soldiers, families and civilians – who are achieving a level of excellence that is truly Army Strong.
• We also celebrate our local communities for their steadfast support of our Soldiers and families.
• We are “America’s Army: Service to the Nation, Strength for the Future.”

Fittingly, despite the current climate of budget austerity in Washington, the House of Representatives today passed a 1.8 percent military pay raise. Nothing could be more deserved.

Remembering Dad on Father’s Day

Army veterans have many stories to tell – and I have a personal story to share.

The profound significance of military service recently hit home for me when my father died earlier this year.

My dad was not an Army hero and never saw battle. Yet, like so many others of his generation, he quietly and dutifully served America.

Dad served in the 10th Mountain Division during the mid-to-late1950s — including an assignment in the Special Explosives Unit.

The 10th Mountain Division includes Army veterans such as former Sen. Majority Leader Bob Dole, who saw combat and sustained a disabling injury during WW II.

My father received an honorable discharge as a 1st Lieutenant. He then got married, started a family, and embarked on a 40-year career as a successful business executive in the textile manufacturing industry — working in NYC.

While my dad achieved much in life, his Army service – while relatively brief — will always be a lasting legacy because of its positive life-long influence.

During his recent burial, I somberly observed the military honor guard place the American flag over his coffin before presenting it to me in that time-honored military ritual. This was a proud moment in the midst of mourning.

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Leadership & Patriotism

When I think about dad on the Army’s birthday, as well as on Father’s Day, I will proudly remember his service to our nation and the life lessons he taught and instilled in me over the years — many of which he learned from his Army service.

These lessons included strong discipline, loyalty, perseverance, hard work, putting others above oneself, and never giving up despite how bad a situation appeared.

Thus, let’s all pay tribute to the U.S. Army as it commemorates 238 years of existence and excellence.

Without the sacrifice, bold leadership and innate patriotism of our Armed Forces, America — as we know it — may not be here today.

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* All views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author only.