The various news outlets are reporting casualties among our troops in Afghanistan. Please join me in praying for their safety, for the people of Afghanistan, for those who bear ill will against us, and for all leaders. ... Read more here

66 years ago yesterday, the US and allied troops made the Normandy Invasion into western Europe in a major push that in less than a year set brought about the end of World War II in Europe. When you see a World War II vet (we are losing them very quickly as most still living are in their 80s and 90s) tell them “thanks” for fighting the big war for freedom! “Almighty God, Author of liberty, thank you for the sacrifice of countless soldiers, sailors, Airmen, and Marines to provide and protect liberty. So many gave their lives for this great privilege we enjoy today. Remind us that freedom is not free. Amen.”... Read more here

Israeli forces intercepted a flotilla headed toward Gaza earlier this week and there was, sadly, a loss of life. Apparently weapons of various sorts were on board at least one vessel which had the alleged purpose of delivering aid, or aid workers, to Gaza.... Read more here

As we approached Starbucks out of breath from our morning jog (someday we may be holding signs saying, “Will jog for coffee!”) my wife and I noticed an older couple ahead of us in line. A bit stooped with age, the lady had help from her husband, grey-headed and, in contrast to our sweaty state from the jog, curiously wearing a sweater on this bright and warm morning. But more interesting yet was his hat, stating boldly, “WORLD WAR II” and under that “VIET NAM.”
Never one to pass up some potentially great conversation, as we approached this couple at the cream and sugar area of Starbucks, I finally had to ask about his service … after all, it was Memorial Day Weekend. I found out he did serve in both WWII and Viet Nam and that he was an Air Force bombardier on B-17 bombers, the same as portrayed in the movie, “Memphis Belle.” We spoke about that amazing aircraft, so essential to the war in Europe in WWII, about Norden Bombsights, and about his flying missions out of Italy.
When I asked about the food in Italy there was a pause, his wife shrugged her shoulders, and I suggested that perhaps there wasn’t much food during the war. With a mildly dismissive look he said, “Well, we had C-Rations.” Like millions of others who fought in that war, and like so many others in the Army Air Forces, as the Air Force was known during WWII, he fought on when many had given their lives. In fact, the Army Air Forces lost more officers than any other service during WWII.
All this sank in more fully as later in the weekend my wife and I and our daughter and her Army husband watched “Memphis Belle.” What bravery was shown in the face of danger; what determination to give and give and give … so today we can enjoy a pleasant conversation with some living American history, right in the middle of a cheery Starbucks coffee shop.... Read more here

A day to honor our war dead … Memorial Day! ... Read more here