Sunday August 7th was the 224th anniversary of the Purple Heart. George Washington created this award in 1782 to honor “not only instances of unusual gallantry but also of extraordinary fidelity and essential service in any way…”
It seems to me that the troops we lost last Friday in Afghanistan embodied these characteristics.
 
While entitled cowards in the free world take to the airwaves and streets demanding to be isolated from the economic woes facing their countries, while the Left seeks to erase every trace of Christianity from our public square, while we sit mesmerized by American Idol and other mind-numbing distractions, these brave men gear-up and head into danger with steadfast resolve. Courageously willing to face the evil that we at home can comfortably ignore, but which they know is real because they have seen firsthand. They do not falter.
 
Sultan Knish has a wonderful piece: The Warrior’s Tale which reverently explains the true worth of these honorable men and their sense of duty. Without them, civilization will decline and turn to tyranny – or barbarism.
 
Thank you Lord for sending us warriors like this. Bless their sacrifice and their families.
 
History does not record why Washington chose the color purple for the award but traditionally it’s been considered the color of royalty. His love and regard for the troops was legendary – and mutual. In Washington’s view the common soldier who sacrificed for his country was as deserving of respect as any monarch. He is indeed.
~~~~~~~~~
 

Special Forces Creed
 
I am an American Special Forces Soldier!
 
I will do all that my nation requires of me.
I am a volunteer, knowing well the hazards of my profession.
 
I serve with the memory of those who have gone before me.
I pledge to uphold the honor and integrity of their legacy
in all that I am – in all that I do.
 
I am a warrior.
I will teach and fight whenever and wherever my nation requires.
I will strive always to excel in every art and artifice of war.
 
I know that I will be called upon to perform tasks in isolation,
far from familiar faces and voices.
With the help and guidance of my faith,
I will conquer my fears and succeed.
 
I will keep my mind and body clean, alert and strong.
I will maintain my arms and equipment in
an immaculate state befitting a Special Forces Soldier,
for this is my debt to those who depend upon me.
 
I will not fail those with whom I serve.
I will not bring shame upon myself or Special Forces.
 
I will never leave a fallen comrade.
I will never surrender though I am the last.
If I am taken, I pray that I have the strength
to defy my enemy.
 
I am a member of my Nation’s chosen soldiery,
I serve quietly, not seeking recognition or accolades.
My goal is to succeed in my mission – and live to succeed again.