At 2:30 PM I had thought of a historical comment for today, a Friday. However, news from Iran changed my mind. A US pilot is missing in action. An intense search and rescue operation is underway. The sacrifice of all our military is impressive. The plight of this young pilot and all who are risking their lives to make a rescue helps bring war into focus. We know there is a big picture ongoing that involves thousnds of America’s best men and women. News of today’s action is not only attention grabbing but it is a reminder that so many are doing their best for our country.

Recently I’ve mentioned a guy from our high school and a fraternity brother who died in Vietnam. Each were pilots. Each were shot down. I’m thinking about them tonight and wonder what was going through their mind when crashing. Survival and rescue were not as good or available in those days/conditions. One also thinks about today’s downed hero. What were his thoughts? What is being experienced inside Iran? Evasion and survival for sure. Friends and family must be besides themselves tonight. We are safe and comfortable here at home but please remember that there are numerous stories about individuals being played out each and every day. Use today’s news to help focus on the bigger picture of support for all the troops. Patriotism is not bad.