This morning I had the honor of participating in the Visalia Veteran's Day concert.  Our Chamber Ensemble was invited to sing at this event.  We sang the National Anthem, God Bless America and a Medley of Armed Forces Anthems.  In between songs were stories of local veterans who served in WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam.  The stories of these Veterans were so moving... made it hard to sing (or play piano) after hearing them.  These were ordinary young men who enlisted and served.  The stories we heard today were filled with courage and commitment to their "brothers" and their country.  Some of these men have been awarded Bronze Stars, Silver Stars and at least one Purple Heart.  As they stood to be recognize, we applauded.  It was an honor to be involved in honoring and thanking these men and women.
Today I am so thankful for the men and women who served and continue to serve in protecting and preserving our freedom.  

To Sam Garver, Alex Workman and many others, we are so proud of you and thank you with all our hearts.
Thank you to Daniel Unger, who gave his life to protect his fellow soldiers.
To my Dad who served in the Army and was proud to be a part of Post-War reconstruction in Germany, thank you.... I miss you.  You would have loved the event today.