Vallejo Times Herald photo
Posted on 08/19/2005 8:25:37 PM PDT by Coop
Profound, powerful words - a quote one might expect from a Greek philosopher or Mother Teresa, not a kid a couple of months shy of his 20th birthday. "Kid" may accurately describe LCpl West in chronological terms, but he was far more mature and wise than most people twice his age. He recognized terrorism's deadly threat, and as he graduated high school he was already making up his mind to become a Marine and fight for the very freedom many of us too easily take for granted. Phillip made it perfectly clear that he was well aware of his mortality, but he also realized freedom isn't free - a fact that escapes far too many in contemporary society.
However, this young man's determination and selflessness in the face of terror probably surprised few who knew him well. As a teenager this avid football player and fan was already serving others, working as a lifeguard and coaching a swim team. Phillip's community in American Canyon CA recognized his dedication to hometown and nation by christening its swimming facility the Phillip West Aquatic Center...
(Excerpt) Read more at heroesandtraitors.org ...
If I don't, then who will?
Phillip West, when asked about personal danger while serving in Marine Corps infantry
Dedicated to helping others at home and abroad.Bronze plaque outside the aquatics center now bearing LCpl West's name
Hero ping.
Bless his heart.
Thanks for the post. I am glad this young man's story is being told.
We have many who serve, doing an excellent job. I am proud of them all. It's just a crying shame that their many exploits and contributions to the world community are not focused upon by the media.
A man like this makes me feel one inch tall,God Bless him.
Well said. Our troops must battle an immoral enemy and the American media. But fortunately for us all they are up to the enormous challenge.
Yes, it is indeed fortunate for us. I sure agree.
The better half of this nation is reflective and grateful tonight.
The rest are demeaning American pride, if not for revolution's sake then only for spite.
Heck, it's hard not to keep the faith after reading stories about Phillip West and so many other incredible heroes.
Don't ask why we are blessed with these men, just thank God that we have them.
Ban the msm for 6 months and we would have the problem solved.
I've posted the following several times before - but sometimes I don't care if it annoys some folks. These young men and women today are the new greatest generation.
The following was originally printed in a daily devotional that my Mom gave to my Dad as he was shipped off on a minesweeper to the Pacific in WW II. The book is called “Strength for Service to God and Country”. This devotional was for SEPTEMBER 11. Written by Dovert Walton McElroy, First Christian Church, El Paso, TX.
CHOSEN TO SUFFER
“They therefore departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name.” (Acts 5:41).
All of us are called upon to suffer in one way or another. Much of our suffering goes to waste because it is not geared up with an all-compelling purpose. A great cause, such as liberty, chooses men who are big enough to suffer, men who “can take it.” It chooses men who have the stuff in them to endure hardships; who can laugh at privations; who are willing to give up privileges, comforts, and ease. It chooses men like the apostles who, after being treated in a most shameful way and cruelly flogged, came from that experience rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer for the name of Christ.
Great causes have a way of choosing men who are worthy to suffer. And it is through men that suffer that great causes come to victory. The highest blessings that we enjoy today came in this way. Christ on the cross, Washington at Valley Forge, Lincoln baited by newspapers and even by his cabinet members, and a few among many who were chosen to suffer for great purposes and were found worthy – bringing victory to the cause that chose them.
In these days, the great cause of liberty is again choosing men to suffer for its sake. Shall we who are chosen be found worthy?
Prayer:
Our Father, we are being called upon to suffer for the sake of all men everywhere. The great cause of liberty, with all that it means, is calling for men who are worthy. Wilt Thou make us worthy in every way. Keep the high purpose of freedom upper-most in our hearts, and cleanse us from all selfishness. Dedicate us anew to the high cause of world brotherhood, and give us the victory of an enduring peace. And so shall our suffering be not in vain. In the Spirit of Christ we pray. Amen
For it's Tommy this, an' Tommy that an' Chuck him out the brute!"
But it's "Savior of 'is country" when the guns begin to shoot."
Rudyard Kipling had it right.
Never again for our troops serving and fighting around the world.
Vietnam Vet
yeah, they always change their tune when the drums begin to roll, don't they. pissants.
glad to see yet another Kipling fan.
RIP Philip and Mark. Brave heroes, never forgotten.
grandma mac
That's a wonderful post that I'd not seen before. Thanks.
Man, wouldn't that be nice? Just as long as we can keep Free Republic up and running during that time! :-)
Welcome home.
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