Happy Fourth of July

Over the years, I have observed and consequently learned that the most patriotic and hard working people are by and large sales people. That's because you are enthusiastic, positive and understand that when you dream your dreams you can make them come true in this great democracy we live in. I love people who are enthusiastic about the USA and I love people who are enthusiastic about life. We are blessed to live in this wonderful country. Therefore, I thought you would enjoy the story of a medic in Iraq who was shot and lived to tell the story. Dedication to duty and honor is really what life is all about.

I recently had the privilege of visiting with the Surgeon General of the United States Army David Rubenstein. We talked about a lot of things and the conversation got around to the fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. He told me a story I shall always remember because it is both haunting and inspirational.

It was about an Army medic who was shot by a terrorist sniper. Thanks to an armor-plated jacket, the medic survived the shot. Rubenstein said, ”The kid ran around behind a tank right after he was shot even though the blow had rendered him breathless.” His buddies spotted the terrorist and were able to wound him. The terrorist ran off bleeding profusely and limping badly. When the medic saw the fellow run off, he ran off after him even though he had put himself in a very dangerous position.

They found the medic kneeling over the terrorist trying to keep him alive until they could evacuate him to a hospital. This incredible story tells us a lot about the kids who are in our military who are totally devoted to their duty. Unfortunately we don’t hear these kinds of stories as often as we should. It should make us very proud and it should fill us with wonderment as to the goodness of men whether in the military or in civilian life.

We are about to celebrate the Fourth of July which also means we will be celebrating our freedom and our liberty. Without the dedication and bravery of so many of our soldiers and sailors and Marines over the past couple of hundred years, we might have nothing to celebrate this holiday. This country has many women and men who do care about their country and are dedicated to the principles of this great democracy. Have a great Fourth. Have fun and remember those who have given of themselves so that we can be with our families and friends and neighbors during this patriotic long weekend.

God Bless America!


Chuck