Dear Veteran,

You had my back.  You served our cherished United States of America; you served the world.

I am profoundly grateful.

I recognize your sacrifice. 

I mourn your sacrifice. 

I value the inspiring example you and those veterans who have died are to the generations of us who have come behind you, to live, work, play, love and dream in a democracy.

I pray the leaders of this country will continue to focus attention toward providing the resources necessary to improve your quality of life, where sorely needed.    I am optimistic.

I thank you for your service.

Sincerely,

Marva L. Stith

Recognizing those in my immediate family who are veterans, I include this excerpt taken from the Endnotes in Black Star Girl, my award-winning memoir.

Page 226:  “Three of my brothers would serve in the military; Jim in the U.S. Air Force, Larry in the U.S. Navy and Roy in the U. S. Army.  A brother-in-law (Pete Nelson) cherished his service in the U. S. Marines.“