True American Heroes

This week I had the fortunate opportunity to meet with three true American heroes. I met with Sergeant Justin Callahan, Special Agent Thomas Fogger, and Commander Erik Shaw. Over the years I have met with a number of so-called “important people”, but never in my life have I been more honored than I was being in the presence of these three American heroes. Let me explain.

All three of these gentlemen are war veterans that have sustained major injuries while protecting our freedom and liberty. These brave men gave up valuable time in their lives, left their families and friends, and went off to war in order to protect the rest of us. They went off to defend this country so that their families and our families could continue to enjoy the freedoms and liberties of this great country.

Justin served in Afghanistan and is a decorated veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom. During his tour he had the misfortune to have his leg blown off in a land mine explosion, and now has to spend the rest of his life walking on a prosthetic leg. Tom served in Iraq as a Special Agent and while conducting an investigation in southern Baghdad, his convoy came under attack and his vehicle was struck by simultaneous roadside bombs. His injuries were so severe that it took him more than a year to recover. Erik served in both Korea and Iraq. He served as part of the Army’s Elite 3^rd ACR, and also as a Sniper, as well as a Commander of a Bradley Fighting Vehicle. He too was injured serving his country.

These men are heroes not only because they put their lives on the line to protect us, our families, and our freedoms, but these men fought with courage until they no longer could. These men all sustained major injuries and were then discharged from the military; not to be taken care of for the rest of their lives, but to be told “thanks for your service, and good luck”. They were put through a one week transition training class and sent on their way. And this is typical of other injured and disabled veterans.

In my mind, these men have every right to be upset with the government, with the military, and with America. These men could feel bitter about their circumstances, about the lack of help they were given at the time of their discharge and about the lack of support they now receive. But are these men mad at their country? Are they bitter? No. These men are proud of their country. They are proud of their service, and all three of them said that they would gladly do it again given the chance. These brave men are not upset because of the lack of support they received. Instead, these men have made a decision to take matters into their own hands.

These three brave men have decided to come together to work for a group called Hire Heroes USA. This organization is dedicated to helping returning veterans with injuries or disabilities secure gainful employment. They work with veterans from all branches of the military and with companies all across America. They help place these injured veterans into companies across many industries. This is a wonderful organization I am proud to say I support. I hope you will too. Please see their website for more information. www.hireheroesusa.org

So, don’t let anyone tell you this isn’t a great country. And don’t think the United States of America has anything but the very best and bravest men and women in the world, in our armed services.

Remember, you are able to enjoy your freedom, your liberty, your life – because of the sacrifices of men and women like Justin, Tom and Eric. Help support their efforts.