MILITARY & MOTORCYCLES_JULY 4, 2013
Happy 237th Independence Day
(Happy Birthday America)
In the last 237 years America has become what others countries only wish they could have accomplished. We were the beacon of hope, freedom and prosperity for millions upon millions of people around the world who wanted to better themselves and their families who had to assimilate into our traditions, customs and language. We were a bastion in a world full of unjust practices and political turmoil.
Somewhere over the years things began to change, we were being led down the primrose path by politicians who wanted to line their pockets due to greed and to bolster their egos. Friend’s that is not what America is all about. America is the land of the free, the home of the brave and the place where someone with a good idea can make them self a millionaire. With all of the rules, regulations and governmental intervention placed upon everyone today those dreams are almost nonexistent.
When my family came here from Ireland they had to learn the language and assimilate into the America fabric to be accepted so as to become what they are today. Now people want America to change for them and to become the country which they left for a better life here. I’m confused; if your way of life and country was so good what are you doing here? We should not have to change for you or anyone else, we are America. If that is a problem feel free to go home, no one is stopping you.
John Adams in July of 1776 wrote to his wife Abigail and said “It (Independence Day) ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”
This year as we blow out the candles on the birthday cake to celebrate 237 years I hope and pray we do not blow out the light of Freedom. GOD BLESS AMERICA
Sometimes it’s Personal
Early Tuesday morning I received a phone call from friend of mine Leonard “Taz” Leary who is a Ride Captain for the Patriot Guard Riders (patriotguard.org) Port Charlotte. The call was regarding a good friend of his by the name of Raymond Gregory Upchurch who passed away on June 23rd and was buried at Sarasota National Cemetery on June 28th (Friday). Greg aka “Dein Cau Dau” passed away due to complications of Agent Orange and Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS).
Greg served in Vietnam with the US Marine Corps in the 3/1 Marines India Company from 08/69 to 08/70, 2nd Platoon, where he contacted the symptoms of Agent Orange.
My task was to take photographs of the Full Military Honors Service at Sarasota National Cemetery at the request of Greg’s family.
God please Bless those who serve to protect us and the United States of America.
CPL. Raymond Gregory Upchurch
January 20, 1950 – June 23, 2013
Semper Fi Marine