joeccombs2nd

I have been following the news and it has occurred to me that something important has been forgotten.

When we first send troops into Afghanistan in October 2001 part of the stated mission was to fight the terrorists in Afghanistan, so we would not have to fight them in the United States (also to go after the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and Osama bin Laden). The part about the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and Osama bin Laden is being covered in the news. But everyone seems to have forgotten that part of the stated mission was to keep the homeland safe from foriegn terrorists.

For 19 years, 10 months and a few days the military of the United States and our allies have kept foriegn terrorists from attacking the United States on American soil.

If you served in the military of the United States or our allies during this time, I salute you, job well done. If you are the family member or friend of one or more of those military members I thank you.

If your family member or friend gave the ultimate sacrifice to keep us safe from terror attacks here at home, I want you to know that every time I look at my daughter I am eternally grateful for their sacrifice. I will never forget your loved one or the sacrifice they paid for us all. As a veteran I want to remind you, that though your loved one is no longer with us, YOU are still part of our military family and you always will be. If there is ever anything we can do for you, let a veteran know. If the person you ask can’t help you with your particular need, we will know someone who can. It is the same that your loved one would have done for our families if they would have had the opportunity. It will be the highest honor to render service to you and your loved ones. No matter how small or large. You are important to us, you are family. I offer my sincerest sympathies for your loss.