Never Forget...

Boston and Braxton,

Today was another beautiful Monday. But, this Monday was a little more beautiful than the other ones throughout the year. This one marks the beginning of summer. And, it was a holiday...so I had the day off from work. I was able to spend the day with mom and the rest of the family. It was a great day.

Today was a special day. But, it wasn't special because of the day off, the beginning of summer, or the holiday BBQs. It is much more important than all of that.

Today is one of the most important days of the year. On this special day, we take the time to celebrate, honor, and remember those who have served our incredible country. It is a day to thank all the men and women who have sacrificed for our freedoms. It is a day to pay tribute to all those who have died for us.

There are no words that will do justice for the gratitude I feel in my heart for all those that have served. We are so blessed to live in this free nation...but as you will learn...freedom isn't free! An unbelievable amount of blood has been spilled, countless tears have been cried, and incredible sacrifices have been made.

One day, I want to take you boys to Arlington National Cemetery so that the three of us can see just a portion of the massive sacrifice that has been made on our behalf. I have never been there, but one day we will visit it together. Arlington National  Cemetery is one of the most sacred places on this Earth and it will truly be a sight to behold. I can only imagine...

Hundreds of thousands of fallen American soldiers have been laid to rest at Arlington's hallowed grounds...each and everyone deserving a thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Trace Adkins sings a beautiful tribute to the fallen in his song "Arlington". It is a song that brings tears to my eyes every time. And, it is one you will hear often in our household to remind all of us of the service and sacrifice that has been laid on the altar of freedom.

We must never forget that.

ONCE a SOLDIER, ALWAYS a SOLDIER...

Thank you to all those past, present, and future that have, are, and will serve our nation!

We are free because of you. Thank you for your fight!

Boys, please never forget the sacrifices made. Please never forget to thank the men and women of our armed forces. And, always remember them!

I love you guys.

Love,

Dad