"A knight is sworn to valor,
His mouth speaks only truth,
His heart knows only virtue,
His sword defends the helpless,
His might upholds the weak,
His wrath undoes the wicked!" - Code of King Arthur and the Round Table
Is the American Soldier the modern-day embodiment of this ancient ideal? Never having served, I am perhaps not the most qualified person to answer that question. The servicemen I know and have known personally all served with honor. Their valor and their virtue are clear from their character both in peacetime and under fire. These men have no need of falsehood. I have witnessed acts of tenderness and steadfastness in support of their friends and loved ones. While I have never actually experienced their anger in opposition to evil, I would have no second thoughts about putting my life in their hands. Their lives have been an example to many, me included, and I, for one, am grateful. Are these men Knights? You bet your boots they are!
So here's to you, you Band of Brothers, you Knights of Freedom's Table: Geri and Hank Weber, George Domas, Lyman Roberts, Wilbur Rogers, Paul Gray, Norman Parker, Ryan Simpson, Lee Harris, Bill Dufrene, Matt Kennedy, Charles and Marty Munley, R. Gordon Kean, Buzz, and Albert Hampton Obier.
May the ground rise to meet you, may the wind always be at your back, may the ocean's current carry you forward, and may the air be smooth and calm.
Thank you for your service to our country, my very good friends.
Standing beside a rocker at the old place, I am,
Col. Jim
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