Loss is reminder that freedom isn’t free

Sadly, we are once again reminded of the tremendous cost of freedom. Five more American military service members in Japan have paid with the ultimate sacrifice. Five “Hero” American Military service members. Sadly we are once again reminded that freedom is not free. Unfortunately, as we all realize, this will not be the last deadly training exercise the military conducts.

America must always be on the ready, 24/7 training. It does not matter what uniform they were wearing. We Marines tease the Navy Sailors, the Army Soldiers tease the Air Force Airmen. Neither of us is better than the next. We do the teasing in friendly jokes but when the power hits the fan, and the blades start turning, the military fan blades all turn in the same direction. Forward.

All of those who choose to serve have all stood and, “Pledged allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.” There is only one American Flag.

Life will go on, and the sun will come up in the morning, but rest assured that our American Freedoms that we all enjoy we be protected, and guarded, by the Men and Women of our Armed Forces. There is no greater bond of Brotherhood than the bond of the United States Marines. “Once a Marine, Always a Marine.” My beloved Marine Corps is in a state of extreme sorrow over the loss of these five young men. “Thanks for Serving,” that’s all one needs to say when coming across someone in uniform.

Believe me, it will make someone’s day. Let us not forget, police officers and firefighters wear a uniform also.

“Thanks For All You Do.” God Bless America. FRED RICHARD Wellton