What is the definition of a warrior?
Webster describes it as a fighting man: brave fighter or soldier. How would we see fit to describe a warrior or soldier?
It is our belief that a warrior or soldier is a person or persons who commits and sacrifices their own comfort for the freedom in which we now live and dwell. Most times asking nothing in return but the result of the task in which they have been asked to complete. Some have not received the recognition they deserve and the respect they have earned. Of all the soldiers and warriors that have served there are few that would have regrets and would serve again if needed and called upon.
Attending the Marshall county festival powwow in Moundsville West Virginia,
Sept 6 and 7 2003, I had the honorable and privileged opportunity of spending time with some veterans from the 709th Military order of the Purple Heart from Elm Grove West Virginia. This honorable and proud group of men shared with me some of the experiences and duty stations in which they served. Their service ranged from WWII in the Pacific and European theater to the Vietnam conflict. Obviously in order to belong with these fine men you would have had to receive a major injury in battle. These men, even though some were obviously disabled and/or elderly, still possessed the courage to participate in Grand Entry carrying colors and remaining in the hot sun until the Veteran song was complete. After witnessing this I felt a little ashamed since some of us even complain when we cannot find a parking place close enough to the door at the local Walmart. What price would we pay for the freedom we live in? After looking into the eyes and the weathered faces of these mature men I knew I need not ask the question that I was pondering. They feel the same as I do. I knew these men, if called upon, would do it all again if needed. They would serve if called upon. If someone can't understand that, Well I guess you just had to be there.
Because our country is currently at war there are many men and women returning home. Let us first pray for the safety of the loved ones and for the recovery once they have returned. Let's be sure to give the honor to them which they greatly deserve.
No disrespect is intended by not mentioning any other Veteran, or military organization. I only intend to share the experience that I personally had with these men.
