I am old, nearing 80, born before WWII ended. Where I grew up many of our neighbors were veterans, as was my father (Battle of Midway). Some neighbors were widows and orphans of those who served. Many of those who died never came home. They found graves in places around the world previously unknown to us.

Despite this, my friends and I grew to young adulthood in an America we could believe in and support. Like so many of my classmates, I went to military service early, at 17 years old. I served with guys who were matter of fact about entering the service. We weren’t wrapped in the flag nor chanting gung-ho slogans. We took our training and went to our jobs. Conversation, when not technical, usually involved cars and girls. On occasion we put on our dress uniforms, most often for travel off base. Once, it was for an Admiral’s inspection. You should have seen us march. Perhaps ramble would better describe our style. Our outfit was way down on the priority list for material, but at the top in the Naval District for combat air readiness.

We were aware of the political rhetoric from D.C. and the Pentagon but didn’t care much for the career-building overweight flag officers sending our troops into a fight with their hands tied. We knew our job and we did it to our best ability. All our comrades in arms had a dedication that was inspiring even when betrayed by the changing values of the press. We weren’t special, we just took pride in doing our work to perfection. By this we manifested our pride in our country and our military. Also, pride in those of our people who lived decent productive lives, all of us making America the greatest country the world has ever seen.

This is our shared legacy. Don’t you dare despoil it, not while we are still alive as free Americans! Our oath to “protect and defend” never expires. God Bless America and give strength to us in our time of need.

Rick Rienks

Baker City