USO Canteen FReeper Style....Monday....April 1,2002

USO Canteen Freeper Style

War has come to our shores. It was committed on American soil. We have been able to live in Freedom only because of those who have fought in the past wars giving life, limb and all the sacrifices for us to live in Freedom and go about our day without fear.

On September 11, 2001, that comfort, that feeling of living in a land that would not be attacked ended.

William T. Sherman said it succinctly, "War is hell."

The day has come for this Nation and its people to understand that there is a risk in losing its freedom, and in reality there always has been. We have ONLY stayed free because of the sacrifices of our military, our warriors.

This is about saving the future of America. Aristotle said, "We make war that we may live in peace."

We are seeing the American Flag flying at homes now more than ever in my lifetime. We are seeing the American Flag flying on vehicles and people wearing Flag pins and small Flags on their clothes. America is united in the cause for Freedom and for our country to WIN against the evil that came upon our land to kill and hurt us. To change our way of life and to destroy America which is US, you and me. To take away our precious Freedom.

This is the Freeper version of the USO Canteen. Where soldiers could come and feel a small part of being at home. It is a place where you that have family in the military can post a thought to a loved one that might be able to read it far away from home. A place where we that support our military can help support them, post to them, fun graphics showing the price in America and our troops. Poems, quotes, cartoons, or articles of how America is behind our troops.

Those in our military are our Nation's warriors. Let us join hands, fly our Flag and let the world know how important our warriors are to us....And that our MILITARY, our Warriors, are America's TRUE HEROS!

"No Marine was ever honored for what they received. Honor was the reward for what they gave." (Anonymous) CHIEF gave his all in many ways. He touched our lives and his friendship meant so much to all of us. He will live in our hearts forever, and his friendship will always be a bright and shining memory in our hearts and souls.

USO Web Site

Join Operation Infinite FReep!

ALL PREVIOUS THREADS

NATIVE NAMED 'SOLDIER OF THE YEAR' IN WEST VIRGINIA

POINT PLEASANT--The second time was the charm for John Harper, Specialist in Automotive Supply, when during his second stint of serving his country in the National Guard he was named West Virginia Soldier of the Year.

After winning battalion competition in Charleston in January, Harper was sent to the state level last month, where he walked away with the illustrious title.

"What was done up there was nothing really out of the ordinary," Harper said. "I'm just average up here. W.Va is the No.1 state in the U.S. as far as readiness is concerned and there are hundreds of outstanding soldiers in this state and in this unit," Harper added, "This is the best maintenance company in the United States."

To secure the title, Harper had to pass uniform inspection, present proper physical appearance and military bearing, then sit before a board of command sergeant majors from around the state and answer any question they may have.

Questions may range from soldier's common tasks to the various family programs the Army offers.

Harper has served in the National Guard from 1978 to 1982 and returned to duty two years ago.

"I just wanted to serve the state and the community and get some more education," Harper said, "I just enjoyed being in the guard and wanted to be a part again."

Harper sees the National Guard as a viable opportunity for people throughout the community.

"In this area, there's just not a whole lot of opportunity for everyone and you really have to excel to get anywhere and the Guard gives you that opportunity," Harper said, "Unless a person can get a job making $20 or $30 an hour somewhere with job security and benefits and everything, there's nothing better in my book."

Harper's superior officer, Robert Davis, Commander of the 3664th Maintenance Division, shared in his Specialist's pride.

"I think it's great," Davis said, "Specialist Harper is an outstanding soldier and an outstanding individual."

Harper received quite a cache of rewards in addition to the title of Soldier of the Year.

"I have a plaque, they gave it to me then took it back because they needed to engrave it," Harper laughed. "An Army commendation medal, a $100 savings bond, and just a lot of congratulations and respect all around from my fellow soldiers, which means a lot too."

Harper, along with his wife, Carolyn, and two boys, David and Robert, currently reside in Point Pleasant.

Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.