Later this week we will participate in Veterans Day celebrations here in Willacy County. Around this nation and in other parts of the world, others will hold observances for our troops and those who served before them. We need to take the time to honor those who have served their country well, those who are still serving, and those who have laid down their lives for freedom around the world.

You don't have to go too far to find a veteran. You can find them just about anywhere. You might find them in restaurants, in schools, in nursing homes, at VFW and American Legion Posts. You can find them in your neighborhood, in your church, and of course you can find them in doctor's offices and in cemeteries. Those who are still with us are proud of their services, and most would serve again if physically able and asked to do so.

Most of the veterans I know will hardly mention their service time, the wars they were, the battles fought. However, if you ask one, and they feel that you are really sincere, they will begin to share their lives with you and you can have a history lesson right before your eyes. You can watch as they relate stories about battles, fellow servicemen and women, families left behind to worry about their return, the emotions change in their facial expressions from sadness to pride, from fear to love, love for their ser- vice, their country, their flag, and love for those that waited at home.

Nobody really wants wars, but sometimes they are necessary to ensure the rights and freedom of people. We can be proud that this nation has always had those who were willing to step up and serve, knowing they may be putting their lives on the line, but they still are ready, willing and able. For those men and women who have served in the past, we say thank you. For those still serving we pray for your protection, and for those who have paid the ultimate price by laying down their lives for freedom, may your rewards be many in heaven and may God's peace be with your loved ones left behind.

I was looking for something special to use this week to honor our veterans and I think I've found something that kind of sums up the personal feelings of all veterans.

I AM A VETERAN I stood up, I showed up,

I stepped forward, I raised my right hand,

I stood in the gap, I walked in the fire.

I did not run,

I did not hide. I did not dodge,

I did not evade.

Consequently...

I have nothing to prove,

No one to convince. Those who matter already know,

Those who don't, never will.