Picture of the day - November 11, 2008

To our men and women in uniform - Thank you!

Photo courtesy of Robert Schwarztrauber. On this Veterans Day 2008 I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the fine men and women who have proudly worn the uniform of the United States Military, especially those who are serving in harm's way as we speak so that we might continue to enjoy the freedom and security that we hold so dear. And since yesterday was also the 233rd birthday of the United States Marine Corps, with the help of photographer Robert Schwarztrauber I would like to dedicate this day of honor and remembrance to that esteemed branch of our military. Whenever it becomes necessary to defend ourselves with deadly force, it is often the Marines who are first on the scene and the first to make the ultimate sacrifice. They are revered by their countrymen, respected by their peers in our other military branches, and feared greatly by their foes. There is no finer fighting force on the face of this planet, and our great nation and the entire free world owe each and every one of them a huge debt of gratitude. The following is Mr. Schwarztrauber's story behind today's beautiful picture: "In honor of Veterans Day, here is a photo of a beautiful Marine Corps Monument on the banks of the "Mighty Niagara" River in North Tonawanda, New York's Fisherman's Park. The sculpture by James J. Hartel along with the U.S. Flag, Marines and POW flag make for a wonderful scene against the powerful heavens. The Conrad Kania Detachment of the Marine Corps League created this project dedicated May 8, 1999. It is a living, on-going monument honoring all Marines past, present and future; air, land and sea; Regular and Reserve; active or retired; peacetime or war service."   --Robert Schwarztrauber Of course it goes without saying that we thank the proud members of the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard for their selfless service and sacrifices as well. Any branch of the United States Military can hold its own against any other fighting force which may come against them, but working together as a team they are virtually unstoppable. Their dedication to duty and their willingness to give their all for their country should it ever be required of them never waivers, and their dangerous jobs will never cease to be needed if we are to remain a free and prosperous nation. To our men and women in uniform, I simply say this: For all you do, for all you give up in defense of our country and our way of life, we thank you. You will forever remain in our prayers.     Visitor Comments... Name: Phyllis Helton Town: Bristol, VA Now and forever, we thank you!!!     Name: Tim Briggs Town: Santa Clarita, CA A powerful tribute for sure! Well done and happy Veteran's Day to all those who served our country.     Name: Adam Taylor Town: St. Louis, MO Happy Birthday Marine Corps from one of your own. Semper Fi!     Name: Jenna Friedman Town: Norfolk, VA Thank you. There is nothing else that needs to be said.     Name: Ana Delgado Town: San Diego, CA Thanks to all of our service men and women who give so much in return for so little so that we can all live free. I love you all.     Name: Frank Lunsford Town: Schenectady, NY This is a beautiful photograph and a touching article. Great job all the way around. Thanks to everyone who has served our country and those who are serving in Iraq and Afghanistan right now.     Name: Ron Trees Town: Spokane, WA Thanks to Mr. Schwarztrauber for the great photo and Rick for the nice tribute. Not much I can add except to say THANK YOU to all of the great military men and women that have served and are serving. So many these days do not seem to appreciate the selflessness with which you serve our country. You all deserve our respect and honor!! God bless you and your families!! THANK YOU, Ron   Comment on today's picture  |  View previous "Pictures Of The Day"  |  Submit a photo Why I publish the "Picture Of The Day"