Michelle Obama was on Oprah yesterday talking about new support for the military and I was glued to the set. As all of you know, supporting our combat cougars has become very important to me. Too often, they are not recognized for the unbelievable sacrifices they are making to keep us safe.
On the show yesterday, Tom Brokaw made a very interesting point. He said, "one percent of the population are putting their lives on the line to protect 99% of the population". That's pretty amazing! He asked Oprah how many Americans know the name of one person serving in the military. Oprah admitted she didn't. So there you go. These heroes are taken for granted, because for us, it's business as usual. We have to unite our country in support.
Another forgotten group are the wives and mothers of the men serving. They are heroes too and have the herculian task of taking care of the home, finances, children and being there for other military families when they are needed. And, of course, there is the everyday concerns, wondering if their husbands, sons, & daughters are safe. One woman put it this way - we bear no rank but have one of the hardest jobs in the military.
The First Lady reminded us that people affiliated with the military are very proud. They are proud to serve their country and do it without complaining or asking for help. They don't ask but that doesn't get us off the hook. We must step up to the plate and let them know we support their efforts.
In the next couple of months I will be developing new initiatives to support all these fabulous combat cougars. I hope you will join me in my efforts. Right now you can help by participating in "the shining service bracelet" campaign. You have no idea how much the women love receiving this beautiful token of appreciation. I love the emails I get from the recipients of the bracelets I have sent. The best part is through this connection you develop a new friendship. You have the privilege of being of service to them while they are away and when come home.
Check out these websites too. USO.Org and Serve.Gov.
