John Sheda.

Has it really been 45 years since our middle daughter, Annie, was born? Impossible, I say, ‘cuz I’m only around 61, ain’t I Deb? What? I’m how old? Holy smokes, that almost puts me at the red tees in “Geezer Golf.” Ok, to be honest, I’ve been at those tees for about four years now. Where did the time go? But, enough of age and besides I digress. This column today is about celebrating America’s Birthday in Chelsea, Haven, Tama, Toledo, Montour and everywhere else in Tama County. Where will you be watching the Fireworks????

I know today is about picnics, parades, family fun, celebrations and of course, FIREWORKS, but it’s also about FREEDOM. And freedom is about the Veteran. We all owe our freedom to each and every one of you. So this is a letter to you, the UNITED STATES VETERAN.

Dear Veteran,

As a nation we owe you an immense debt of gratitude. You are the brave men and women who sacrificed so much to protect our freedoms and ensure our safety. Expressing our appreciation to you should not be limited to just Veteran’s Day, but also the 4th of July and every other day of the year. Your bravery and dedication is an inspiration to us all. Thank you for your service and for being a genuine true hero. Thank you for defending our country and our values we all hold so dear. Your service in the military has made a profound difference and has touched countless lives.

You answered the call of duty with bravery and selflessness and we will not forget all you have done to keep us safe and free. Your strength, courage and dedication is an example to all of us and you’ve made your country so proud because of your service. Thank you for all the sacrifices you made. We are truly lucky to have heroes like you.

Also, a huge Thank You to all the spouses & families of those who served. I can only imagine the sacrifices you made as well as the challenges you faced as your loved one left for his/her tour of duty. Of course, you are a hero too.

So to all who have worn the uniform and served our great nation, we salute you. Your courage and unwavering dedication to duty has kept us and our most cherished freedoms safe. Today as we face a time of division, you and your fellow Veterans remind us of what unites us; our shared values of service, sacrifice and love of our United States of America. You, the Veteran, have shown us the best of what America can be. On behalf of a grateful community, here in Tama County we THANK YOU AND HONOR YOU TODAY AND EVERY DAY. AND WHEN WE SEE YOU WALKING IN ONE OF THE PARADES THIS WEEK, WE WILL PROUDLY STAND AND SING OUR NATIONAL ANTHEM. BECAUSE WE STAND WITH YOU.

Happy Birthday Annie. Are you really 45? No way! This is johnanddebsheda@gmail.com signing off. Or give me a call at 319.327.4640.