PFC Ross A. McGinnis, MOH Recipient

"Ross did not become OUR hero by dying to save his fellow soldiers from a grenade. He was a hero to us long before he died, because he was willing to risk his life to protect the ideals of freedom and justice that America represents."
Thomas McGinnis, father of Ross McGinnis

I feel that it is of vital importance for those of us who live in this great country to be reminded of the sacrifices that others make on our behalf. I have for many years been fascinated (not really the correct word but I can't think of another) with the men who are Medal of Honor Recipients. These men (and perhaps someday women) who are humble in demeanor, who would tell you that they were just doing their duty, who give their lives for their comrades.

In wars past we were reminded frequently, and we honored more publicly, the sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform. We seem to have lost that ability. The main stream media does not report, does not cover, gives short shrift to the young men and women who serve us here and overseas. They give very little coverage, except in a negative sense, to those who give the "last full measure of devotion" for our country.

Today President Bush awarded, posthumously, the Medal of Honor to PFC Ross A McGinnis who sacrificed his life so that others in his vehicle might live. Let us honor the memory of our brave men and women who put themselves in harms way to protect us here at home. Take the time to watch the award ceremony and to remember what these young men and women are all about. They are our best and brightest.