I attended Colorado Christian University for my bachelor’s degree in Business. Upon signing up for the project management course, students had to log into the online portal and post a short introduction in the Threaded Discussion section so everyone knew a little bit about us prior to the start of class. Shortly after, my husband was laid off of work. Money was tight and I didn’t have the heart to spend what little money we had to purchase the necessary text book. I contacted my professor notifying him my intentions of dropping the class until our financial situation improved. The professor immediately emailed me back, insisting I come to class. After several back and forth emails, he convinced me to continue the course and even offered to pay for my book. Though I found it odd, I was grateful for such a persuasive professor who cared so much.
On the first day, the professor walked in, introduced himself, and began the class with a prayer. He then pulled up our introductions and asked us to go around the room and share our names so he could associate the intros with the students. Once everyone had introduced themselves, he began to share a short bio about himself. He was a very decorated retired Air Force pilot who served our country and was now using his knowledge and experience to build others. Halfway through his speech, he looked at me and said, “do you know why I insisted for you to be here?” I replied “No, sir.”
What followed next left me speechless. He said, “I was one of the pilots who bombed Baghdad during the Gulf War. I wanted to meet you, to see with my own eyes that someone survived the bombings I participated in.”
Although he and so many other military personnel were sent to fight in Iraq, they were also the ones who rescued us from execution. Many innocent civilians and military personnel lose their lives in these battles, but their sacrifices are not for nothing as so many are saved. From the bottom of my heart I say “THANK YOU!” to every man and woman who serve(d) this country, marched into Iraq, fought on our behalf, and risked their lives to save ours. Not enough words can describe my gratitude!
Next time you see military personnel, find a simple gesture to show them your gratitude, such as offering to pay for their meal, or maybe something simple like shaking their hand and thanking them for their service. Let them know they have your support.