“Take these men for your example. Like them, remember that prosperity can be only for the free, that freedom is the sure possession of those alone who have the courage to defend it.”
–Pericles
Observance of what in Canada is called “Remembrance Day” occurs every November 11th. It is a time of year that is set aside to remind those who benefit from freedom of the ultimate sacrifice of the many who made it possible. Their sacrifice continues even today in fields that lie on the other side of the world.
Nothing can ever be done, no matter how deeply the words may be chiseled into the most timeless rock, to adequately reflect the heroism of the countless young men and women who have answered the call to duty. Their sacrifice is also honoured by those who serve the cause of freedom in other ways. Though they wear no uniform and no badge of rank, ordinary citizens who hold those who exercise power to account for its proper use, who demand transparency and openness in the conduct of the public’s business and are intolerant of accusations that to question the over reach of government and the erosion of civil rights and personal privacy is unpatriotic, also do justice to that sacred trust. They, too, are the enemies of tyranny and the sentries of freedom.
There are battles to defend freedom around the world. There are also battles at home to preserve it.