I am grateful to all the men and women who have served to protect us and our constitution.

I am humbled by those who stepped from safety into danger knowing that their chances of returning were nil.

My heart goes out to those we've lost and their families. This is especially true when their mission had little to do with our safety but, rather, political expediency.

For those that have returned with silent wounds, I hope that you are able to get the help you need to survive the war you still face daily.

For all of you who have made it possible for me to pursue my utterly useless and trivial passion of windsurfing in safety and freedom, thank you.