LETTER TO THE EDITOR – INDEPENDENCE DAY
To the Editor:
On July 4th, we will celebrate our country’s independence. While we are celebrating with parades, cookouts, and fireworks, let’s not forget those who have made sacrifices to protect our nation. As a member of American Legion Auxiliary, Roy Unit #33, I want to personally thank all servicemembers of the Armed Forces of the United States of America and veterans for their countless contributions to protecting our freedoms and keeping our nation safe.
I also want to thank the families of deployed servicemembers for their strength and their sacrifice. Our country is great because of you. In your honor, I want to invite everyone in Harding County to take a moment with me today and pause in recognition of those who have fought and those who continue to fight for our freedom.
The American Legion Auxiliary, founded in 1919, is a community of volunteers serving veterans, military, and their families. ALA members assist veterans in hospitals, advocate for veteran issues, support therapeutic creative arts festivals, distribute poppies for remembrance, and much more. In addition to serving the military community, the American Legion Auxiliary hosts ALA Girls Nation and the ALA Girls State programs that teach future leaders about government and civic responsibility. Learn more at www.ALAforVeterans.org and @ALAforVeterans on Instagram and Facebook.
Barbara Shaw
President
Roy Unit #33, American Legion Auxiliary
Hello Readers of KRTN Radio News. I would like to add to Barbara Shaw’s Letter to the editor. The American Legion is the only Veteran Service organization chartered by congress. Congress recognized both the Legion (open to all veterans) and The American Legion Auxiliary (open to all spouses and children/grandchildren of a Veteran). We work under the guidance of the four pillars.
One of our primary goals is to work together in service to others. We are always accepting and inviting new members. I am a member granted the opportunity by my grandfather. One of my favorite words of reflection is “home of the free, because of the brave.” In my opinion we take our freedoms and those who fought for our freedom for granted. It really is time to pause and reflect upon their work and sacrifice in protecting what we hold so sacred. While Men and Women can now choose to serve there have been times in our Country that most young Men and some Women had no choice. If you do not qualify for membership, please don’t be discouraged in volunteering. You are always welcome to volunteer with us or any other non-profits or service organizations in the community. We appreciate all who serve God and Country, in service to others. Thank you to The American Soldier and those caregivers and first responders that have answered the call. Thanks for reading. Stay blessed, be safe, and show gratitude. Happy 4th of July/Independence Day.