I have been afforded a number of honors that have cheered me, embarrassed me, or made me swell with pride.  Nothing though, compares to being in the presence of Brian Thacker USA, Michael Thornton USN SEAL, Thomas Norris USN SEAL, Jon Cavaiani USA SF, and Harvey "Barney" Barnum USMC, Medal of Honor recipients all.  These true American heroes were out in the freezing rain and muck at the Irish Pub in Philadelphia to support the Travis Manion Foundation and the Marine Corps Law Enforcement Foundation, proving that heroes remain heroes no matter how many years pass.  I would rather have spent the two hours with these men than be with a similar number of rock stars, or even a bevvy of Playmates. 

 

To a man, they were all personable, gracious and even more than a little self deprecating concerning the actions which earned them their places in the annals of history.  When I approached them to thank them for their service and sacrifice they all said nearly the same thing, "You would have done the same."  Well gentlemen I am certain that all of us who have worn the uniform would like to think so, but there's no way we'll ever know that for sure.  What we do know is, that on the day of the action which earned these men their Medals of Honor, no other person on the planet acted with anything approximating the valor, sacrifice, and courage they displayed.  Quite simply, their actions were beyond what could reasonably be expected of anyone. 

 

It has been said that those of us who have worn the uniform of the United States military fight for flag and country, but sacrifice for our brothers alongside us.  For these men, and those like them, that could not be more true.  Thank you gentlemen for your service.  Thank you for making me feel even prouder to be an American soldier and, as always, WELCOME HOME.