0645 (CT), 01 Nov 01 -- US 385 North (Driving up from San Antonio)

Driving across west Texas...the moon is setting, the sun is rising, and the sky is clear and as deep a blue as I've ever seen in these parts. The cotton crop is being harvested and hard working farmers have little time to rest and reflect on the "downward trend" of our national economy...they will have to count their losses, even though it was a relatively good crop despite the midseason hailstorm, later as they have cotton to be ginned.

I am a bit nervous, and kind of unsure why: I'm giving no speech, I'm performing no life saving action, I'm simply running a couple of miles along a desolate highway, with a cloth on a pole to show my determination against oppression and to help generate awareness of the needs of the victims of the nightmare we now refer to as 911. Ironic that it's also known throughout our country as the "call for help".

But my spirit calms as I realize that it isn't just a piece of cloth on a pole that I'll be escorting and at some point in the run, honored to carry. It is the emblem of our country. It is a cross, of sorts, that I gladly bear. I am doing the work that the Lord has set before me and so many of my fellow countrymen so desperately need. I take with me the holy spirit of the Living God. I take with me the spirit of all those who perished and are suffering from the tragic and senseless events of 11 September. I take with me the spirit of a President, young in the job, but wise beyond his years. I take with me the spirit of all who are supporting us on this run with prayers, love, and well wishes. ...and I am strengthened by each of them.

From my 70 year old father (who has lovingly supported and encouraged me throughout this undertaking and was one of the first to donate) to my 10 year old niece (who wrote the newspaper of her home town, Littlefiled, TX, population 7000+, of whom I know only 7, about our "family effort" and raised $250 dollars in 5 days), I am now convinced that Mr Brokaw was wrong. We are living amongst "the greatest generation"...right here...right now!

I've been stationed throughout the world, from Okinawa to Saudi Arabia and I can honestly and objectively say: Like no others, we, Americans, are a people rich in drive, sacrifice and devotion, especially when the stakes are so high. I believe we always will be, as evidenced by all those who responded to the attacks, all those who responded to this run, all those who gave of their hearts and wallets to support us on this adventure, but especially my wife and 2 kids, who I had the pleasure and honor of running with today.

We, as a nation, are unique among all of God's creation. And we will continue to endure and produce "greater generations" as long as we remain committed to being "one nation, under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for ALL."

Therefore I personally will "meet any challenge" and "overcome any obstacle". I personally "will not waiver" and "will not tire". I personally will do anything and everything within my power to ensure that this nation "of the people, by the people and for the people will not perish from the earth".

Well our portion of the run is done and the flag goes on. Lee Greenwood is singing that the Lord's "truth keeps marching on" as well and I am brought to tears.

Tears of sorrow for the killed or injured, including those in far off lands who do not comprehend or agree with what we are truly about.

Tears of joy in the confirmation of just what kind of country I serve, live, and get to raise my children in.

Tears of pride in my wife, my kids, my family, my friends, and my fellow service members who, at this very moment, are faced with being one of the key instruments of our national response to terrorism:

"Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord.
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored.
He is loosening the lightning of His terrible swift sword.
His truth is marching on!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!!
His truth is marching on."

Thank you for this privilege and honor.

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