My thoughts and best wishes are with the families of a special group of courageous men.   Just for today, when I am sitting in traffic and I apply my break, I’ll pause just a minute and remember what you do. When I order my second refill on Sweet Tea at lunch today, I’ll take a moment and think of how much you have sacrificed. As I walk through the Airport and see the Plane sitting at each gate I’ll pause and think of how fortunate I am that you are doing your job. When my favorite pitcher steps onto the pitchers mound tonight at Tuner Field I’ll remember how much you contribute to my lifestyle.

When I boot up my lap top and access the internet to check world events and National affairs, just for today….. I’ll take an extra minute and thank you for all you has contributed to the freedoms I enjoy. As I prepare to rest at the end of my day I will have you in my thoughts.

Just for today….. I’ll remember how you have afforded almost every aspect of my life the luxury of knowing the right to exercise these amenities came with a huge price tag.

For everyone of your fallen friends, for each amputee that has worn your uniform, I’ll take time today and send you a thought of appreciation.  For every family member that has sacrificed and placed their life on hold so you can do your job abroad, I’ll be grateful just a little more today.

Your courage and devotion to a few simple beliefs have provided a Nation with the security needed to practice the Freedoms we exercise on a regular basis. For many, the sight of your uniform, the mention of the word Marine invokes a feeling of honor and respect.

As our Country recalls these courageous men who have served and fulfilled their obligation, my thoughts will be with the family. As “Ready Recall” will be activating an additional 2500 within the nest few months our country will remember the job you do.

You may feel that the American Public overlooked the announcement made today as we woke up and started our morning routine….. but I wanted to take a moment and make it known that there are many Americans who heard the announcement and just paused to remember how grateful they are that we have you defending our way of life. My post represents thousands of people who have acknowledged this gratitude and appreciation.

You are not alone, your family has not been forgotten. There are many that understand you have fulfilled your promise, your family has with stood all of the days and weeks and months that your fate was unknown. Now, you are being involuntarily demanded to give a little more…..-But-… it is not without notice by so many of your fellow Americans.

I personally thank each and every Marine family for all of the sacrifice and these challenges they have already experienced….. and for the added amount of anguish and concern that you will be living on a daily basis now… I just say Thank You. To every Marine that has ever walked a post, stayed awake while I slept and gone without so that I have a guarantee of my Freedoms, I take today and Thank You.

For without the Marines, our Nation wouldn’t be as strong or as powerful as we are today. Without the Marines, the safety and security that blankets every public event would not be there. Without the Marines our Country would not be the Nation that we are. Thank you to each and every individual that will have his Duty extended beyond his obligation, though this call up….. I thank you.     Kisses ~Tori