We have been told that America fielded 10 million men and women in uniform during WWII. But the truth is the people at home were serving their country too. We pulled together. Men and women worked in factories building war equipment. The “Rosie the riveter” program gave women the chance to serve, and they did. Others were serving veterans that returned from the war needing medical care. Some people put their efforts into salvaging valuable metals to support the war. Was it a perfect time in our history? Not really but we were a very solid unit. We fought evil, not with vitriolic language, but with dedication and hard work.

Although we were not “the more perfect union” our founders challenged us with being, but we were pretty darn good. We must never forget those who died and those that returned, but without all their parts and sometimes without their sanity.

We need to come to the path that is embraced by all the world’s religions and take care of each other. The cynics among us will say that I am a fool. Yes, I am, if being a fool they mean I care about my fellow human beings. Guilty as charged!

When you celebrate this holiday, count your blessings. Surround yourselves with the people and things that make you happy.

While contemplating the sober thoughts of this holiday, rejoice in being an American. It didn’t come easy.

Ernie Fazio