I hope everyone has had a pleasant month. There really are no events to relay this month, so I would like to consider a word: Disconnect.
Society in the last few years seems to have distanced itself from our military. For instance, after 9-11, the support for our uniform services — which includes first responders — was staggering. Social groups made “care” packages for deployed units to alleviate the anguish of being away from their homes and families. I don’t hear of this happening now. How have we gotten to this point?
Statics show that on average 1 percent or less of the population has had military service. In 1975, 71 percent of Congress had served, compared to 20 or less representatives now (granted, not every person is fit or capable to perform military service).
How often do we recognize our service members when they are home on leave? How often do those members wear their uniforms out in public when they are on leave? Could it be a lack of pride?
These statistics and thoughts course through my mind regularly, along with questions. How have we reach this level of indifference? Have we no patriotism? Has the “new” worn off? Where did we turn our backs to neighbors? Or is shallow current events and reality TV more entertaining?
I understand we are all busy with our day-to-day lives, and our entertainment choices. We don’t have time for extra-curricular activities — or so I’m told. As you see, I have many unanswered questions, circling back to the word, disconnect.
What has driven this disconnection? Could it be the media images of disabled, disfigured vets or the scant news coverage of flag draped coffins returning home? With the holidays closing in, maybe we can all take some time to reflect on this word and perhaps reconnect — to forge a new bond to our warriors. Bear in mind they volunteered to be the line, the thin line between us and the world evil.
October is membership drive month for the American Legion (and I believe for the VFW). These groups, along with others, spearhead preserving the scant benefits our veterans receive nationally and locally. Also each organization provides scholarships to students for secondary education. Take some time to visit your local chapters, even if you don’t join we would appreciate the time you spend socializing with us.
The VFW is sponsoring a speech contest at Cabool and Willow Springs schools that is open to elementary, middle school and high school students. More information should be available at each school.
The Houston American Legion is sponsoring a quilt raffle, for a quilt made by the ladies of Ozark Baptist Church. Tickets are a $1 each, or six for $5. This raffle helps to fund the scholarship program.
R.E.D.: Remember everyone deployed (on red shirt Fridays).
