Thank You!

I want to take a minute today and thank all of those who have served us and this country in the US military. There are quite a few of my family members who have served in the United States Marine Corps. These men and women have given so much to serve and protect us so that we can enjoy the freedoms we don't even think about, but exercise each day. My Great Grandfather, Carl G. Wikoff served in World War II and my Grandpa, Carl J. Wikoff served in the Korean War. I admire my husband, Sergeant Isaiah J. Stratton, for serving 6 months active duty and finishing up his 6 year contract in the reserves this past year with the USMC and has only about a year left in the inactive reserves. These brave men are my heroes. The fact they are or were willing to give everything for my freedom and the great county we live in, is honorable and laudable, and they have my utmost respect. So a huge thanks to all of you, and all the sacrifices you've made! I encourage all of you who read this to thank someone and anyone you know who have served us in any way in the United States Military.

THE MARINE

We all came together,

Both young and old.

To fight for our freedom,

To stand and be bold.

In the midst of all evil,

We stand our ground,

And we protect our country

From all terror around.

Peace and not war,

Is what some people say.

But I'll give my life,

So you can live the American way.

I give you the right To talk of your peace,

To stand in your groups,

And protest in our streets.
But still I fight on.

I don't complain, I don't whine.

I'm just one of the men Who is doing your time.
I'm harder than nails,

Stronger than any machine,

I'm the immortal soldier, I'm a U.S. MARINE!

So stand in my shoes,

And leave from your home.

Fight for the people who hate you,

With the protests they've shown.

Fight for the stranger,

Fight for the young,

So they all may have,

The great freedom you've won.

Fight for the sick, Fight for the poor.

Fight for the cripple, Who lives next door.
But when your time comes,

Do what I've done.

For if you stand up for freedom

You'll stand when the fight's done.

Corporal Aaron M. Gilbert~ UNITED STATES MARINE~ USS SAIPAN, PERSIAN GULF