A Hero's Welcome with extra baggage

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/06/08/delta-airlines-changes-policy-after-charging-soldiers-returning-from/

Delta airlines made news when they charged returning soldiers $2800 in baggage fees. Regardless of your political views, you have to admire these men and women in uniform who willingly sacrifice of themselves and their families to serve their country. These brave men and women spend months and years living in daily danger and missing their families. When they are finally returning home, some airline has the audacity to charge them for "extra" baggage. Sorry, Delta. Some rules are meant to be broken. There are exceptions to every rule. If you serve our country, put your life at risk and leave your own family for months on end, you deserve the red carpet and royal treatment when you return to American soil. Not everything has to be about "making a buck". These soldiers did not enlist in the military for the fabulous pay or luxurious travel. They do it because they feel called to it. The least they should receive upon returning home is a Hero's welcome. Maybe I should be relieved that Delta responded to the public outcry over their glaring misstep. But, I'm not. I'm shocked that it was even an issue. I know it isn't always feasible but when a soldier is returning home, they should be handed a first class ticket, a glass of champagne and a heartfelt thank you- not a bill for their luggage. So, I'll say it. Thank you and your families for all you do and all your sacrifices. God bless you and your families.

A rainy day and a soldier to the rescue

Christian and I ventured out to Sam's Club today. While we were shopping, the thunderstorm of the decade erupted, trapping us inside. While we waited for it to subside, we struck up a conversation with a man in uniform. Noticing Christian was getting restless, he graciously offered to run to his car, get his golf umbrella, bring it back and escort us to our car. How nice is that? I insisted that we were fine and it was an appreciated but unnecessary gesture. He told me he has been in worse weather and he wanted to help. Christian saluted him and he was off. We dashed through the rain huddling under his umbrella. While I strapped Christian into his carseat, my knight in a uniform loaded my groceries and returned my cart. This man has devoted his entire life to protecting America and his fellow Americans. He extended this simple and kind gesture and thought nothing of it. It meant a lot to me. I hope my son grows up to be a man who thinks of others and realizes that little things and actions speak very loudly. I hope he treats his fellow man with respect. God bless our men and women in uniform.