By Ralphine Major

Occasionally, I still see images in the news and on social media about him.  It has been over two months since the tragedy in faraway Afghanistan that claimed the lives of 13 brave Americans.  On November 11, our nation pauses to honor our veterans who have served their fellow Americans so unselfishly.  The day set aside by Congress to honor veterans of the United States military may take on a greater meaning to East Tennesseans this year.  Army Staff Sergeant Ryan Knauss, one of the 13 heroes lost in Afghanistan, was a native of Corryton, Tennessee.  Images of his flag-draped coffin, the many memorials that honored him, and the motorcade that transported his body to Arlington National Cemetery will surely linger in our minds forever.

To veterans, thank you for your service.  To those who sacrificed all, we owe the highest gratitude.  God bless the United States of America and all who are serving and have served.  Because of veterans, we can enjoy the beauty of another autumn, a picnic with family in the mountains, and the gathering of worshippers at the church of our choice.  Because of veterans, we can enjoy the simple pleasures of going to a baseball game, a concert, or a Veterans Day Parade.  Because of veterans, we can proudly fly the American flag.  Because of veterans, we can enjoy the freedoms that come with being an American.  Because of veterans, we can . . ..

Words of Faith: “Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance.” Psalm 32:7 (KJV)