Freedom isn't free and it isn't cheap.  Throughout the history of our nation, thousands and thousands of soldiers died defending our freedom.  My grandfather Henry fought in World War II in the Navy and his ship got hit by a kamikaze Japanese plane.  He survived that crash but many of his friends and fellow soldiers lost their lives in that war.  He later died from particles of that plane that remained in him from the war traveling down near his heart giving him a heart attack.  

All of us know or are related to someone who is serving or who has served in the military.  I have several friends and family members who fight bravely each day defending our freedoms and I'm so thankful for them.  That is why today we must take the time to thank God for their bravery and sacrifice, to remember the lives lost making our country great and keeping it free.  I am so thankful for all the brave servicemen and women who put their lives on the line.  

Today is so much more than a day for going to the beach or barbecuing.