Letter to the editor: Don’t forget that freedom is never free

As we celebrate our nation’s birthday, we have much to be thankful for. For the first time in years, our community did not have to fight a major flood. On this special holiday, we remember the price paid for freedom. Our Founding Fathers pledged their lives and their futures when they signed the Declaration of Independence. From that document has come the greatest nation in history. Every generation has paid the price of freedom.

Our greatest generation fought the deadliest war in history. Today, our military pays that price as they go into harm’s way to defend us. It is right and proper that we take time on July 4 to pay tribute to all who have defended the frontiers of freedom. Join with veterans’ groups to say “Thank you” for the privilege of living in this greatest country.

We are losing the veterans of World War II. They are a living reminder of a time when America faced its greatest danger and its greatest test. Around the world, people are free because of their heroic sacrifices. Americans have stepped up each time our freedom and security have been threatened. As a veteran of Vietnam, I am keenly aware that each generation must pay the price of liberty and freedom.

In Kohima, India, there is a memorial to the American, Australian, British, Indian and Nationalist Chinese soldiers who stopped the Japanese in World War II. Tens of thousands died in that heroic effort. The inscription on the memorial reads as follows:

“When You Go Home

Tell Them of Us and Say

For Your Tomrorows

We Gave Our Today”

We must not forget that freedom is never free. And, it is never easy. I have no doubt that each generation will be worthy of those who have gone before. Our country faces many challenges. We are not the first to be tested.

With faith in God, with hard work, with that unique American blend of optimism and hardheaded realism, we will triumph. It is never easy, but, as President Ronald Reagan reminded in his final letter, America’s best days are ahead, not behind us.

Keith Hovland

Valley City, N.D.

Tags: opinion, letters, veterans