Each of us probably have many things to be thankful for. Whether its our family, health, or just our general good fortune, each of us have enjoyed precious things for which we can indeed be grateful. Some things however are easily overlooked. In 1979 I spent Christmas in Atsugi, Japan. As a young Marine temporarily stationed there during the holiday I was lonely and sorely missed home. On Christmas morning I was asked to fly short scouting mission with my commander, a major. Just before we departed, while standing in front of our planes he asked if I knew why we were there. I do not remember my reply, but I recall clearly his answer. He said we there to do three things: protect democracy, protect our families, and show the lousy communists who’s in charge.

U.S. Navy aircraft in front of Mount Fuji

Today we indeed live in a free and democratic county and our families are safe (unless over seas serving our country) and there are almost no more communists. This Christmas season let’s all give three big thank yous. First to those who protect us, next one for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and one last heart felt big thank you to all of their families-the Americans they left behind and continuously and unselfishly wait for those they love. Thank you one and all.

God Bless and Merry Christmas

Gene Ferraro