My family recently enjoyed two awesome celebrations of independence in one small span -- Bastille Day for France and Independence Day for us. How did you celebrate? Fireworks, cookouts, pool party? And amongst all this frivolity, did you remember the meaning?
Being a military brat, I tend to lean quite a bit toward pomp, circumstance and tradition. I love the old values of respect and patriotism. For BOTH of my countries. I’m half-French; I’m a recognized citizen. Heck, they even tried to draft my brother at one point. My mom (always the smart one) sent them a letter saying when you pay me for 18 years of back child support, then you can have him. Amazingly enough, the government decided he could be let out of his patriotic duty.
I still get misty-eyed when I hear the “Star-Spangled Banner.” I remove my hat in the presence of the flag. I thank the veterans and active-duty soldiers who have fought and continue to fight for my freedom. I’m really just a big ole ball of red, white and blue. Good thing both countries sport those colors.
Anyway, I digress as usual. I used to call Sears the Evil Empire. For nearly 7 years I refused to shop at their store. It’s a long story.
But then I heard about what they do for their servicemen and women they employ. Did you know they not only comply with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, but they go many steps further including guaranteeing continuance of their civilian pay for up to 60 months and allowing continued participation in life, medical and dental programs? I do now. And I shop them again, too. In fact, I shop anywhere I know the employer supports our troops. I go out of my way to give them my business to honor their contributions.
Sears is not the only company who goes above and beyond. There is a list of businesses large and small who participate at the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Web site. Check it out. Shop them. Support them.
And if you’re an employer, consider joining them. Our celebration of independence might be over for another year; the fireworks have burned out and the ribs have been devoured. But we still have our armed forces in the thick of battle, fighting every day for their survival and our freedom.
To these brave men and women, I say thank you and God bless and keep you safe until you come home.
-- Jennifer
For more information on ESGR, log on to www.esgr.mil.
Posted by: ESGR | July 18, 2008 at 08:43 AM