For Many, the Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan will Last a Lifetime

"The soldier, above all other people, prays for peace, for he must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war." -Douglas MacArthur

As the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq begin to fade from public attention and discourse, I would like to remind my readers that there are many military veterans who will continue to "bear the deepest wounds and scars" of this most recent conflict... some for the rest of their lives. I see a growing temptation in the public mindset that is starting to forget and move on to other pressing issues, but we cannot leave our veterans behind as we push forward as a people and a nation. A mark of a true patriot is one who continues to care for the troops even when it is no longer fashionable and popular to do so.

In the past, I have had the honor and privilege to work with The Wounded Warrior Project which was founded by veterans to assist our own who now battle lingering injuries and disability. This non-profit and non-partisan organization seeks to assist and comfort our wounded veterans and their families and they do an excellent job by providing caregiver retreats, assistance programs, and public advocacy. I was lucky enough to be able to serve as an escort on a joint military/civilian initiative that assisted wounded combat veterans who were still in recovery in military hospitals. Through generous financial support and the charity of local businesses, we were able to provide these heroic men and women with a weekend vacation from the hospital environment so that they could enjoy free time filled with much deserved entertainment, food, public recognition, and relaxation.

...but the Wounded Warrior Project does so much more than this simple gesture of compassion and gratitude. I would encourage any of you who are interested in thanking these veterans by suggesting that you get involved with this worthy program. They can always use financial and material help in the form of donations and volunteers.

As a veteran of Iraq myself, I always hear how thankful and proud everyone is of our service. I respectfully invite everyone to put their money and time where their mouth is by contributing to this and/or other worthy charitable organizations. I have personally seen the good that this program does and so I am happy to vouch for it. I have also seen how underfunded they are and I know that they could certainly use your help. There are alot of scams out there, but these guys are a credible charity.

It is now time to serve and sacrifice for those who have so selflessly served and sacrificed for us. It is now time to begin to pay these individuals back for the immeasurable debt that we now owe them. It is very easy to neglect our neighbor when our own financial situation is difficult or uncertain, but we are called to love our neighbors as ourself. Here are some neighbors who could use your help.

Thanks.