Remember the military as we mark the nation's 250th birthday

Remember the military as we mark the nation's 250th birthday | Opinion Have you noticed how media outlets constantly rank the Top 50 key people, events or documents that shaped our country? As citizens, we certainly should read the documents, visit historical sites, tour museums, enjoy our rich arts, and pay respect to notable figures. Yet one foundational element is continuously downplayed or missing: the military cemeteries, museums, and bases that serve as the cornerstone for every discipline on those lists. Without the protective shield of our military, no individual would have the freedom to express their unique talents. Artists, musicians, politicians, authors, and scientists come and go. But uniformed service members and their supportive families set aside personal aspirations to serve a higher calling: to protect and defend our nation. While people living under dictatorships remain trapped in darkness, our troops stand steadfast to keep us free. As we celebrate our nation's 250th birthday, we must recognize that our stability is rooted in the United States military. Service members are the skeletal backbone protecting every creative organ and essential appendage within our borders and beyond. Unfortunately, many do not fully grasp the deep levels of sacrifice military families endure. Those of us who served, along with our loved ones, observe three crucial September dates with humble pride, presence and prayer: + Sept. 11, Patriot Day + Sept. 19, National League of POW/MIA Families Day + Sept. 27: Gold Star Mother's Day To those who have served or are currently serving, I ask: How do we carry, process and endure the weight of these memories and losses? You see beyond the veil. These observances honor comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice —modern reflections of our Founding Fathers. It is our duty to educate those who do not know. Share your testimonies with family and neighbors. Take them to local and national monuments. Show them your photo albums from Korea, Vietnam or recent deployments. Just as our Founders placed their trust in God, so do many of us who took the solemn oath to defend the Constitution. For strength, turn daily to the Psalms of warrior king David, who found deep spiritual grounding through his trials. A simple minute spent reading or listening to scripture reveals a God who hears our prayers, upholds the humble, and comforts the suffering. Our military widows and orphans need that same active love and support today. As Psalm 27 reminds us: 'The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? … Wait for the Lord; be strong and let your heart take courage.' Let us honor their sacrifice by standing guard over their memory and supporting the families left behind. Chaplain Thomas Azar Shalimar