Last night I watched, "Taking Chance".  It is the story of a Lt. Col. who volunteered to escort the remains of a fallen Marine to his hometown.  The story is true and based on the experience of Lt. Col. Michael Strobl.  I was deeply moved by the story and the film does a terrrific job of portraying the events.  Lt. Col. Strobl wrote an account of his experience.  You can find it here >>>

On the way from Dover AFB to the hometown of PFC Chance Phelps, Strobl saw what the heart of Americans truely looks like.  The level of compassion from strangers was amazing.  The respect for those serving was profound.  And the appreciation of a young man, willing to give his life for his country and others, was deeply moving.

Sometimes, we forget the sacrifice made by those serving our country.  Sometimes we get caught up in the politics of war and lose sight of the fact that there are men and women dying.  Often, we fail to pay respect to those in service and their familes back home who suffer loss for a greater good.

Whatever your political or religious views, as Americans... we should not forget.  Watch the movie and for at least 2 hours, you will be reminded in a beautiful and honorable way.  For me, this film will have a sustaining affect.  I hope it does for you as well.

Tom Cuthbert

I have a friend named Joe who passed away earlier this year at the age of 82.  Joe served in World War II.  Although I would often ask him about it, he would almost never discuss it.  Sherman had it right when he said “War is hell” and no one knows that more clearly than those who served our country by being in the middle of combat.

These days there is a great deal of discussion, debate and differing opinions around the current war.  While I respect all of those perspectives, none of them change the fact that we should pause to honor those who have served, and are serving our country.  Our country is what it is because of the brave men and women who have served.  

I hope you will take this opportunity to honor our heros.  A few years ago, I stood with my family in the middle of Arlington cemetery in Virginia.  It is an overwhelming experience.  The 360 degree view of tombstones is a visual reminder of the scale of the sacrifice.

Monday I will place a flag on my friend Joe’s grave.  My son and I will walk through the cemetery and talk about what it means to serve, honor and respect.  It is the least we can do.