Every time I hear our National Anthem strange things happen to me. First of all, even here at home, I stood up and placed my hand over my heart. I get goosebumps and fight back tears of pride. Amazing Grace on the bagpipes does the same to me. The other one that gets me worse is Taps. Before my father's burial, I stood at attention, saluted,and gave thanks to whomever the bugler was sounding for. After Dad's service, every time I hear Taps I have tears streaming down my face for several minutes and know the pain of the family that Taps is being sounded for.

God Bless America and the Men and Women who continue to serve her both here at home and overseas!