Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime. (A. Stevenson)

As I thought about who to honor on this day, Independence Day 2019, I thought about all those who are serving or who have served this great nation. If you are reading today and you’re one of those amazing folks, please allow me to thank you for your selflessness and your service!! To honor all of you, I’d like to introduce you to one of the most patriotic men I know– Don Seaman. If you know him, then you’ve seen him in the Marines jacket he wears quite often, and very proudly. I’ve posted a picture of him in that gorgeous outwear at the annual Veteran’s Day program put on each November at St. Louis de Montfort Catholic School. My favorite part of that event each year is what is pictured here. The children sing the service song, “Marine’s Hymn” as well as all the songs for every branch of the US Military. Then, veterans or active members of that military branch are asked to stand and be recognized while their hymn is played. It’s very meaningful and moving, and in fact, as I am thinking about it now my eyes are welling up.

Don Seaman is the husband of my dear friend, Vivian, who is pictured with him, above. He’s the father of 4 and the grandfather to many more! He fiercely loves the Lord, his family, his country…and the Nebraska Cornhuskers! He’s ornery, gracious, and a loving, fantastic human being.

“This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.” I’m not sure who said it, but all this week I’ve seen it in the media and even on t-shirts. I quite agree. We all owe a great debt to men and women like Don Seaman who have bravely and generously served the United States in the military.

As Dwight D. Eisenhower said, “Freedom has it’s life in the hearts, the actions, the spirit of men and so it must be daily earned and refreshed else like a flower cut from it’s life-giving roots, it will wither and die.” That pretty much sums up the sacrifices made by men like Don and their families, huh?

Don is a sunny, positive and faith-filled man with a very enjoyable sense of humor. Today, as we celebrate the 4th of July with our cookouts and fireworks, I wanted to tell you, Don, that I believe the United States, her freedom, and everything that is lovely about our nation, we owe to the phenomenal sacrifices made by you and men and women like you. THANK YOU!! GOD BLESS AMERICA, AND HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY, EVERYONE!!

“From the Halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli;

We fight our country’s battles in the air, on land and sea;

First to fight for right and freedom and to keep our honor clean;

We are proud to claim the title of United States Marine!