Local congressman shows support for military

  • Published
  • By Jeff Miller
  • U.S. Congressman
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Editor's note: The following is a letter sent to Brig. Gen. David Harris, the 96th Test Wing commander, from local U.S. congressman, Jeff Miller.

I would like to take this opportunity to convey my sincere gratitude to all the men and women of the United States military. There is not enough that I can say or do to express my profound appreciation for the sacrifice and service that define the lives of our Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, and Coast Guardsmen.

The average age of our recruits varies from 19 in the Marine Corps, 20 in the Navy, and 21 in the Army and Air Force. That means today's Marine recruit was probably no older than seven or eight when Al Qaeda terrorists hijacked four planes and attacked our homeland. That means today's young men and women who, in the prime of their youth, volunteer themselves to serve in the defense of our way of life have spent their formative years surrounded by reminders that we are a nation at war.

They volunteer themselves with the full knowledge they will likely be called upon to serve in the unforgiving environs where we still do battle with the enemy who struck us 12 years ago. They are not ignorant of the realities they face. Their willingness to commit to a life of hardship, sacrifice, and danger is extraordinary. The reasons why these young men and women choose to serve are as numerous as their ranks are deep, but I want them all to know that I do not take their service for granted.

I know our great nation would not exist if it were not for the men and women who have answered the call to serve each and every time our nation was faced with an enemy determined to impose his will upon our way of life. I also know that the families of warriors are vital to their success. We must not forget the families who endure months and years without their loved ones, dutifully accepting the burden of service, and keeping watch over the home front.

On behalf of the people of the First Congressional district of Florida, I would like to convey our sincere appreciation to you and all those you command for their selfless service in defense of our great nation.