Today I can't help but think of the founding Fathers of our country, and those brave souls that have made and kepet us free. I offer this, Patirck Henry's speech (in part) Virginia Convention in 1775, They tell us, sir, that we are weak; unable to cope with so formidable an adversary. But when shall we be stronger? Will it be the next week, or the next year? Will it be when we are totally disarmed, and when a British guard shall be stationed in every house? Shall we gather strength by irresolution and inaction? Shall we acquire the means of effectual resistance by lying supinely on our backs and hugging the delusive phantom of hope, until our enemies shall have bound us hand and foot? Sir, we are not weak if we make a proper use of those means which the God of nature hath placed in our power. The millions of people, armed in the holy cause of liberty, and in such a country as that which we possess, are invincible by any force which our enemy can send against us. Besides, sir, we shall not fight our battles alone. There is a just God who presides over the destinies of nations, and who will raise up friends to fight our battles for us. The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave. Besides, sir, we have no election. If we were base enough to desire it, it is now too late to retire from the contest. There is no retreat but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged! Their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston! The war is inevitable--and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come. It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace-- but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death! From then to now, to all who have served. THANK YOU! The full speech is here Avalon Project - Patrick Henry - Give Me Liberty Or Give Me Death
I say thanks to all of you that are braver than I will ever be for defending this nation and allowing me this great way of life.
I live about 20 miles from Red Hill, Patrick Henry's last home and burial site. I plan to take the Mini to the Christmas Open House on he 7th of December.
To all those Marines out there Happy Birthday and to all veterans, past and present, Happy Veterans Day. Semper Fi!
God bless all our Veterans and current Service men and women. Here's to my Dad. I was always so proud to know you served our Country with such pride! :beer
A day late and about $13K short, but... Thanks to all who have ever served! I wasnt on the boards much yesterday, I was talking with some of these guys.. My first Army family, taken the day before the attack on Camp Pennsylvania in Kuwait March of 2003.