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Published Thursday, July 03, 2008

Remembering the true heroes on this holiday

I was fortunate to land in a seat close to the front on a recent flight that landed in Phoenix.

The closer to the exit the better and it didn't take me long to escape the aircraft. What I experienced that afternoon after landing in Phoenix won't soon be forgotten.

I had to rapidly get to my next gate, my flight only 20 minutes from taking off to Atlanta. I got ready to turn left and start a version of a slight sprint when I first heard the applause.

Soon, despite the looming danger of being late to my gate, I was struggling to move forward. The applause grew larger and the reason for the ovation had become understandable.

Coming at me, from the opposite direction, was a huge group of servicemen. I was told they were a California based army infantry headed for Iraq.

I stepped to the side and joined others who were already clapping. It was one of the most uplifting things I have ever seen.

These men, brave and focused, still appreciated being acknowledged by complete strangers. If they had doubts or reservations about what was ahead, not a one showed it.

The vibe I got from them was confidence. I can't even estimate how many of them walked past me down the hall. I was sort of lost in the moment. It was a large assemblage. A group that gave me the idea that they could tackle anything. A group that made me feel proud to be an American and relieved that they served my country.

I've thought about that battalion of troops a great deal this week, especially as this day approached. I pray that they are all safe.

Today is a wonderful national holiday and I regret those heroes, as well as thousands of other men and women, are not able to be with their families.

I wasn't initially for the war although according to reports it sounds like the surge is working. The troops gave me the impression that they believed in what they were doing. That's good enough for me. I want to support them, although I have reservations concerning how this entire operation has been handled.

Those men will remain prevalent on my mind today. A day, that in the past, has been reserved for visiting with family and watching baseball games.

I may make time to watch Tim Hudson take the mound tonight in Atlanta. The struggling Braves obviously need a quality start from him. Hopefuly he can deliver a win.

But that is just a baseball game and what I saw that day in the airport was far more significant. It was simply something I will never forget. Just ask yourself. How fortunate are you to be an American?

That day in Phoenix, feeling good about what I had just seen, I made my gate in time to Atlanta. I boarded the plane and took my seat on the aisle.

A couple of minutes later, a separate serviceman in full uniform, walked slowly past my row. I extended my hand and said, "Thank you for your service."

He replied, "It is nice of you to acknowledge me and it is a privilege to serve our country."

You don't have to be for the war to support the troops. And it doesn't take more than a handshake or a clap of the hands to let these heroes know they are appreciated.

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