This country suffered a devastating loss this week. Thirty of our finest military were killed during a raid in Afghanistan. This loss involved members of the same unit that recently eliminated Osama Bin Ladin in Pakistan. While it did not involve those who actually conducted the Bin Ladin raid, it was their brothers-in-arms, their “family.”
Any death on the battlefield should hold the same significance to us, no matter the circumstance. But when we hear that such a number of decorated and effective fighters have given the ultimate sacrifice, it affects us deeply. These are the “front line warriors” who intentionally go in harm’s way, to keep the battle at the enemy’s gates and off our shores.
One dictionary defines bravery as: a quality of spirit that enables one to face danger or pain without showing fear. That these special men and women are brave is unquestionable. It’s what else they are that we are in need of reminding. They are dedicated, selfless, sacrificing patriots who are above politics and the materialism of an easy lifestyle. They are of single focus; to do what they are able to keep us safe and exhibit a presence that tells our enemies, “don’t tread on us.”
Oh, how we grieve. We grieve for the families of these fallen heroes, whose hearts ache and who cry out in anguish. We grieve for those whose family members still face these dangers daily. We grieve for ourselves, that we are so helpless to say or do enough to matter in their lives. And we grieve for this country, that we have to send our best and brightest to to die in these hostile lands.
I am convinced that this tragedy will become a political football to be kicked around and fumbled. It always is. Maybe that is a good thing, maybe not. But if it clouds the memory of these brave souls, well, that is not a good thing.
“In Flanders fields the poppies grow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place, and in the sky,
The larks, still bravely singing, fly,
Scarce heard amid the guns below.”
~John McCrae
The Cvillean 
Do really think that is true?
My heart always slows a little when I see Soldier killed in Afganistan among the headlines. We have it in the UK too and it is always sickening. I can’t help but think of thier families when this happens
We all lose a little of our self when we hear of these tragic losses. My heart always hurts when I hear of the loss of one of our staunch Brit allies. You guys are the best!
Very very sad, disheartening, and tragic. Thanks for shining your light on it in your own inimitable style, Big Al.
Not a subject I care to write about much, but thanks, Bernice.
Al, you are a poet even when your write prose. Beautifully said.
Thank you, Lorna. Writing from the heart makes a difference.
Beautiful thoughts and words for a very sad occasion. Thanks.
Your comment is much appreciated, winsomebella. I am vacationing in Virginia Beach right now, the home of Seal Team 6. There is much evidence of the sadness around here.
It makes you want to pull your own close and say a prayer of thanks that we can.
Let us not forget the terrible toll this war has taken on our country and our people.
Thank you Big Al for a beautiful tribute to our fallen heroes. May they rest in peace.
The real tribute will be in remembering them and their families. Thanks for your comment.
May we never forget . . . Amen and amen.
And amen.
A wonderful tribute to all those brave people who died. We feel your loss, and their families are in our prayers.
It really is a loss for all of us around the world, Tilly Bud. Thanks for commenting.