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In August of 1943 a young man named Quentin turned 18 and within a month he received his induction letter to serve in the military. Like many who received their letters, he was a rural kid who hadn’t traveled much beyond his home. Now he was off to play his part in defending freedom. Serving his country was one of the proudest episodes of his life. Throughout his life he loved his country and respected those who served.

Why do I share this story? Because his service and the service of the men and women who have served is being devalued and disparage by a president who knows nothing about serving and sacrifice. This sentiment is evidenced by his statement about our heroes: “they are losers and suckers.” No president in our history has demeaned the courage of our military. So why does he get away with what would not be tolerated by any other president? It mystifies me!

What’s to be done, what’s to be done? Now is the time to send a message that we honor our veterans and affirm that they have earned the services and care they were promised. They made a contract with us that they would put their life on the line for freedom and “we” would care for them, body, mind and spirit.

Now is the time for each of us to stand up and push back. Now is the time to show a small fraction of the courage of those who have served us!

Karen Bell
Albert Lea