Memorial Day: It Is the Veteran

 

I never did track down who wrote this, but it's as true now as ever:

 

It is the veteran, not the preacher, who has given you freedom of religion.

 

It is the veteran, not the reporter, who has given you freedom of the press.

 

It is the veteran, not the poet, who has given you freedom of speech.

 

It is the veteran, not the protester, who has given you freedom to assemble.

 

It is the veteran, not the lawyer, who has given you the right to a fair trial.

 

It is the veteran, not the politician, who has given you the right to vote.

 

It is the veteran, who salutes the Flag, who serves under the Flag, whose coffin is draped by the Flag.