FILE PHOTO
Veteran’s Day 2020 had a different feel as veterans and residents physically distanced at a ceremony in front of the Creswell memorial and fire station.
“I do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic …”
– U.S. Army Oath of Enlistment and Commissioning
I took this Oath when I was commissioned into the US Army in 1970, and have participated in many re-enlistments when it was re-committed by a number of soldiers over the years. For those of us who have served our country, our hearts swell with pride as we recite this sacred patriotic Oath.
I am a conservative, but am deeply troubled and disappointed by the attack on our Capitol in Washington, D.C. this past week. We are a Democratic Republic, and a nation of law. Here, the majority rules, and we follow the vote of the Electoral College. We accept the vote of the majority, and if we lose, we work harder to win the next election. We do not attack our elected Congress and we do not assault our fellow citizens.
Several Americans died during the occupation of the Capital this past week. My heart mourns; it not only mourns for those who died, it also mourns for those who have no respect for the principles under which this nation was founded. During the past year we have seen many incidents of civil unrest.
We have not followed the ideals of the Constitution or the Declaration of Independence. We have not treated each other with respect or equality.
I encourage each of us to re-read the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. I encourage each of us try to live by the tenants they contain. I encourage each of us to teach our children these lessons. Above all, I encourage each of us to treat each other with respect, no matter what.
Bob Beck is a retired Lt. Col., U.S. Army.
