TO THE EDITOR:
Today marks a day to celebrate and give thanks to our veterans. I have had the tremendous privilege to work with both living veterans and the families of the fallen and I promise that I have never met such a group of extraordinary people. I have never felt the pride I felt as I stood in Arlington, or walked the beaches of Normandy, or sat in the houses of heroes listening.
From the depths of Valley Forge, to the seas of the Pacific, to the mountains of Afghanistan, our fellow Americans have answered the call of duty. Whether you are in support of or against a particular conflict, we must always remember to separate the warrior from the war.
We can never forget that our military members don’t sign up for the great pay, or the safety, or the terrific lifestyles, or the vacation days; they sign up to defend our nation and make sure that freedom and democracy are preserved.
To our fellow Tar Heels currently enrolled in ROTC, you are the next greatest generation, and although we may not express it often enough, we appreciate you and respect you. While no quantity of marble, or parades, or words will ever measure up to the sacrifice of all of the men and women who have served our country, please know that we are forever grateful.
Thank you for making me proud to be an American.
Joshua Ford
International Studies
Junior
