Thanksgiving Salute: A Heartfelt Tribute to America's Soldiers

Thanksgiving Salute: A Heartfelt Tribute to America's Soldiers

As we gather around our Thanksgiving tables, grateful to partake in this time-honored tradition, it would be fitting to pause for a moment and reflect on the selfless soldiers who safeguard the freedom we cherish so deeply. Drawing upon a deeply touching narrative from the annals of popular culture may aid our reflection.

Born within American consciousness for numerous decades, the classic television serial "I Remember Mamma" has faded into oblivion for many, particularly for the towheaded young men and women serving in our esteemed armed forces today. This riveting narrative encapsulating the existence of a Swedish immigrant family seeking a fresh start in America, versioned what life meant for these newly minted Americans.

Interwoven among the typical vignettes of immigrant family life—a family composed of a mother, father, sister, and brother from Sweden—one particular episode stands as a poignant testament to the spirit of service and sacrifice that underpins America's military history.

The family's son, drawn by the call of duty amidst a breaking war, chose to enlist in the army to serve his adopted home country, an act showcasing a patriotic spirit that moved generations of Americans. This decision, while shocking to his originally antagonistic family members and causing them acute distress, eventually received their reluctant endorsement, shrouded by an aura of somber acceptance as the family recognized the importance of respecting the young man's autonomy and valuing his service to the nation.

The emotional intensity of the narrative was palpable, reaching its peak on the last night before the young man was due to depart for service. His mother's possibly final goodnight kiss triggered an avalanche of profound emotions, a sensation powerful enough to revolutionize the understanding of war and service for many viewers, myself included.

Up until that point, my understanding of the realities of war was limited, mostly influenced by our naive childhood games of playing GI Joe, using nothing more than a nailed stick as a makeshift gun. War truly became real when it dawned upon me that being a soldier essentially meant confronting bullets aimed at oneself. The perplexing question of why anyone would voluntarily place themselves in such danger lingered on my mind, resurfacing over several decades.

As time marched on, threads of enlightenment began to unravel. It dawned that many individuals genuinely believe that the torch of freedom we as Americans carry is worth fighting for. Some soldiers even extend their pledge to safe-guarding justice and combating oppression beyond American borders, manifesting their global humanitarian commitment.

Countless heartbreaking, inspiring stories of heroism on battlefields that punctuated history provide ample evidence of a pervasive selflessness within the military ranks. These tales challenge the typical assumption that soldiers merely strategize their own survival once bullets fly. It is indeed remarkable to know that their motivations supersede self-preservation, articulated through the honest dedication to protect comrades in their units even at the risk or ultimate cost of their own lives.

Ironically, the motivations leading people into military service may not always emanate from such lofty ideals; the allure of funded education, or an escape route from life's confusing crossroads have led some to the armed forces. These motivations, arguably less noble than those fueling enlistments post 9/11, are nonetheless significant, bearing personal value devoid of external critique. Each person faces the daunting realization of potential combat situations; their decision to proceed despite it is an act of bravery in itself.

History recounts soldiers willingly lining up to fight Adolf Hitler, one of the world’s most ruthless despots. Today’s soldiers face analogous threats, with some in Iraq associating Saddam Hussein and his Bathist party with the specter of Hitler, while others in Afghanistan persist in their pursuit of one of the worst terrorists, Osama Bin Laden.

Any comparison of soldierly devotion in previous wars to present era conflicts should duly consider the element of voluntary service in today’s armed forces. Displaying anything less than full support and gratitude for our soldiers would not only belittle their ongoing sacrifices but form a disservice to the honor of every past soldier who laid down their lives in service to this nation.

Our admiration for our soldiers should extend beyond appreciation for their exceptional training and equipment. The underlying beliefs and principles guiding them, resonating with the core values we as a nation hold dear, should be respected and cherished. Their pursuit of these principles not only represents us but fortifies the foundation of our nation.

Coming full circle to Thanksgiving—besides expressing gratitude for our collective blessings, I, like many, will carry deep appreciation for our soldiers. Their commitment continues to instill a profound sense of awe, reminiscent of the emotions stirred by the young Swedish boy in "I Remember Mama", who chose to risk life and limb for his newly adopted country—the USA.

Prayers hover on our lips, fervently hoping for the soldiers' safe return, while also preparing to house in our hearts those who may not make it back. This Thanksgiving, let's echo the heartfelt sentiment that reverberates through millions of other grateful Americans as we say, "Thank God for our soldiers."