HEROES

BY WALLACE CALEB BATES

Today, four heroes are on my mind. One passed away in action during World War II in 1945 at age 18; one served during World War II and passed in 1980; one served during the Korean War and passed in 2002; one served during the Korean War and passed in 2016: my great-great uncle and three great-grandfathers.

George Washington Arrowood, Robert Blake Bowling, Wallace Bates, and William Barlow Clemons Jr.

Yesterday, I had a conversation with someone about how serving our country does not always mean wearing a uniform.

I have never donned one, but I try every day to live a life worthy of their sacrifices. I also try to serve in other ways: by showing up for my community and choosing compassion in a world that sometimes forgets what that means.

Their legacies are not just buried beneath white crosses or etched on grave markers; they live on in how I lead, listen, and love.

Today, I remember them. But more than that, I try to honor them by living with purpose, choosing service over self, and continuing what they started.

Freedom is not just defended on the battlefield; it is nurtured in classrooms, church pews, and everyday acts of courage.

We owe them nothing less.

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