Ross McGinnis, a 19 year-old soldier in the United States Army in Iraq, watched with horror as a grenade flew past him and down into the hatch of the armored vehicle he was riding in. He shouted a warning and then, without hesitation, threw himself on the grenade. His heroic action saved the lives of his four comrades and earned him the eternal gratitude of their families and his nation. In 2008 he was posthumously honored with the Congressional Medal of Honor for his selfless act.
John 15:13 says, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Everyday the men and women of our armed forces willing sacrifice time with their families, the comforts of home, and their own hopes and dreams, to protect you and me. Some, like Ross McGinnis, even give their lives in service to their country and out of love for their comrades-in-arms.
One day is not enough to adequately honor the sacrifices of the brave men and women of our armed services, but on this Veteran’s Day we want to say a heartfelt “Thank You!” to them for all they have done. Words cannot express our gratitude.
Today, as we honor Ross McGinnis and the many others who have served and still serve, let us determine in our hearts to follow their example, willingly making any sacrifice that our nation may continue to be a beacon of hope to the world and a refuge to her “tired..poor…huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” Let us determine to work tirelessly to assure their sacrifice has not been in vain and that Lady Liberty may continue to lift her “lamp beside the golden door.”