By Robert E. Frank, Colonel
Historic words in our American Declaration of Independence previously cited remind us that: “…all men are created equal…endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights…of…Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness…and…Governments are derived … from the consent of the governed…” After winning the Revolutionary War our founders created a unique government as outlined in the Preamble to its new Constitution saying: “We the People of the United States… to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty… establish this Constitution for the United States of America.” To be sure, those globally historic documents are really special for veterans and their families when reminded that “A veteran is someone who wrote a blank check made payable to the United States of America for an amount up to and including their life.” And, those who survived the past wars have a sacred duty to always honor the sacrifices of those hundreds of millions of others who died and/or were disabled while serving. But, are most Americans being faithful to that moral duty? Perhaps not, when it appears that most citizens between 16 and 36 may not have been taught how to explain the meanings of our basic Bill of Rights that guarantee: 1. Freedom of Religion, 2. Freedom of Speech, 3. Freedom of the Press, and more. How about your family members and friends? Could they do that? Without knowing basic citizenship facts, how can any citizen voter choose wisely for themselves, families and descendants? This is where Veterans and families can help by taking actions to share their personal experiences with those they know. Enjoy a safe, joyous and honorable Constitution Birthday on September 17th and accept today’s challenge to defend and preserve its unique freedoms throughout the year!
