Thanking Our Veterans

The military has played a very important part in the history of America. The citizens of the early colonies defended its existence and guaranteed its freedoms. Two decades after the War for Independence, our nation faced more military action from the British in the War of 1812. The 1860s brought us the Civil War, and in 1898, America entered into a war with Spain.

The new century changed the nature of wars to a worldwide scope with World War I, and less than two decades later, World War II. Since the end of World War II, the United States has taken on a larger role as a keeper of the peace and a protector of smaller nations. We have sent our troops to Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, and Afghanistan.

America owes a great debt of gratitude to its veterans. In all our wars, veterans have played the most important role. They were there to do what was necessary to preserve our way of life. It is easy to take for granted the freedoms guaranteed in our Constitution. The freedom from tyranny and oppression, and the freedom to voice our opinions and to meet in private were fought for by the American veterans who gave of their time, and sometimes their lives, to guarantee our way of life.

We, as Scottish Rite Freemasons, recognize the service and sacrifices the members of our armed services have made and are making. It is with heartfelt gratitude we acknowledge and support these brave men and women. It is for this reason the Supreme Council Veterans Committee is asking every Valley in the Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction to form a Veterans Committee to care for those within our ranks who have served.

So, let us all reflect on those freedoms we enjoy and thank all veterans for their service to our country. Let’s ask them, “Can we be of service to you?”