May the blessings we receive keep us ever in the graces of God and in our spiritual lives. As we live “For God and Country,” we continue to build upon the dreams of the American Legion. Throughout life we all face challenges from the decision to join the armed services to end of life decisions. We face the challenges of daily living with its ups and downs seeking to find the answers to life and making the best of life as we live it. For many of our fellow veterans, service to the country has led to death, illness and suicide. Many veterans often feel alone and isolated and are unsure how to reach out for help. Regardless of the services available from the Veterans Administration and many veteran service organizations like the American Legion, many of our fellow veterans remain alone and isolated believing no one cares. What are we doing to let our fellow veterans know that we are here for them and ready to help? What types of help do we offer that can improve the lives of veterans and their families? Are we that positive ray of sunshine that puts a smile on the face of a veteran? That is what the American Legion is all about. Serving those who have served our country. We move forward so that we can help our comrades move forward. The efforts we make help save lives and make life more comfortable for the sick and infirmed. Helping disabled veterans meet the challenges of daily living brings smiles to their faces and joy to their hearts. What are you doing to help a veteran? How do you help to improve the life of veterans and their families? It is as simple as telling veterans you are praying from them or wishing them a wonderful day and engaging in small talk. It is pointing out that we are comrades and will fight the challenges of life together. During the past few months, I have seen members of the American Legion reaching out to veterans and their families to help make their lives better in greater numbers than in the past. That is what we are all about service “For God and Country.” Service to others before self. Let us continue in our efforts to be of service to each other and to let our comrades know that we are there when they need us. Visit a veteran in a nursing home or in the hospital, reach out to a veteran who is battling illness and give the veteran a hug and tell the veteran how much you care. Find a way to support a veteran in a way you have not before and then share that with other legionnaires that they might serve in a similar way. We can all be helpful and, in the process, save the life of a veteran or improve the life of a veteran.
It is an honor to be of service to the American Legion, Sam Houston Post 95, District 7 and to you. If I can assist in any way, please do not hesitate to contact me at 832-381-7788 or at Redwine202010@outlook.com
Together in service and unity we serve those who need assistance.
May the Blessings of God Be with you All “For God and Country”
Richard Henriksen Jr., Ph.D. District 7 Chaplain
Sam Houston Post 95 Chaplain