You speak the truth my friend.
I think you woefully underestimate yourself in one regard exsoldier.
You were obviously a fine military officer, and the US Army is a sadder place without you, for sure. You're a born leader with an incisive mind that grasps the world o warriors.
Many women and men misunderstand toughness. You dont. Let me explain my point.
Toughness is the ability to get yourself up every morning and go to work knowing you may not come home that night, while still being a good husband and father to your family.
Toughness is being gentle to your children, loving your wife, and having the kindness of Christ to your neighbors while retaining the ability to destroy your enemies in detail before they destroy your family and way of life.
Bravado is telling everyone how tough you are ad nauseum, and then running for the hills when confronted with danger, or being a backstabbing coward and selling out your comrades to save your skin.
The fiercest warriors I know are school teachers, brick masons, computer technicians or electricians who have never lost the "edge" even though they have long since given up combat arms and taken up plowshares.
We have a lot of people with a lot of different talents on this thread, but one thing I know is this:
Each of us is a warrior in their own way.
Beautiful. Amen!
A beautiful post. You just described my father. Now 88 years old. A warrior, a patriot, and a gentle man....and humble survivor of WWII.
He lives with us now.....and I thank him everyday for his service.....and because I don't have to speak Japanese or German.
He is a constant inspiration.
Wonderful words and sentiment.
Thank you.
IMHO this phrase should be our battle cry here on TM!