Personal Interest/Motivational Statement
11/27/01

I am never more proud of my father than on Veterans’ Day.  At nearly every social gathering in early November, someone inevitably asks the veterans in the audience to stand as we applaud their service.  A humble man, my father stands quietly, small in the sea of up-turned faces, while I swell with enough pride for the both of us.  I always clap long and loud, swallowing a lump in my throat, as my father, uncomfortable with the sudden attention, clasps his hands, waits a few moments, and takes his seat.  Although he rarely speaks of those friends whose names are etched in black granite on the Mall, I am sure that when he stands, they stand with him.

I do not own a red, white and blue tie.  I have no bumper stickers with American slogans - in fact, I drive a Toyota.  What I do have is a deep and abiding love for my country and a strong desire to give of myself in service to this nation.  My parents did not lecture me on duty; they did not preach to me of patriotism; they lived their lives as many Americans still do: with integrity, with love, with honor.  They taught me by their example to cherish this land and all for which it stands.

The United States of America is the greatest nation the world has yet seen.  It is a beacon of hope shining out across the globe, but that beacon requires a constant vigil that it may remain bright and clear.  I wish to join the Air Force and tend the flame, as did my father before me.  Freedom is purchased through responsibility; honor is bought with justice; and the price of peace is vigilance.  It would be my privilege and honor to serve my country and those values that I hold so dearly in the United States Air Force.