Lt. Col. Randal Nelson assumed the command of the Group Support Battalion today.  The ceremony was held at Gabriel Field, 3200 Block of Indiana at Ft. Campbell, KY.  If that sounds official, it’s because it is.

Randy, as we know him, and Celeste are in our community group that meets each Wednesday night.  Cheryl and I have grown to love them.  They are great people.  Randy is a great soldier.  Today our group was invited to be his guests as he assumed a new position with the military.  I found myself fighting tears of patriotism as I watched the ceremony.  Standing before me were some of the bravest men and women in our country.   Of course they represent the thousands of others, many who are currently separated from their families, who defend my right to do what I do each day. 

When I think of the persecution of believers around the world I am ever more thankful to be in a country where liberty is defended at any cost.  Sunday I’m preaching on Esther, a Biblical character who was willing to put her life on the line for the cost of freedom.  Today I saw a visual reminder that people do that every day.   

God bless our troops and their families. 

Related posts:

1. 10 Reasons Why I Love Military Families In Our Church
2. Memorial Day Thanks to Our Soldiers and Families
3. Reflections on Focus on the Family
4. Welcome Home Soldiers!
5. The Lantern Ministry – Military Ministry