Every day, we fight battles that are seemingly small, urges that are too quaint to be told and matters too trivial to say. Or so we think.
I admire the many men who have given up their lives for their country, not because I advocate war or love it, but because of the ultimate sacrifice they make for their country. In order for their loved ones to sleep peacefully back home, their buddies to live and fight another day and for a just cause.
Personally, I have drawn much strength and admiration from such valiant men. In life, giving one's best to everything you do can sometimes be hard, even daunting...
Not that i can say i gave alot throughout my life, but i grow tired sometimes just trying to keep giving and sharing. But still, i will continue to inspiration from stories of these valiant people and my own grandfather. I cannot compare my sacrifice to theirs and i pray that i may have the strength to face my daily challenges, stay happy always no matter what and when the calling comes for it - give my best.
I shan't grumble then that i have been through a rough time and felt really horrible. I shan't feel disgruntled that I am empty or void. I shan't complain or make a sound. Because I am nothing, in the shadows of heroes.But there's just so much a person can give. I believe heroes have their down-times too. I believe valiant men feel sad too. I believe men cry at their lowest points in life too.Stumbling upon this article of interest, is the US Navy SEALs finest men in war. The latest, master-at-arms 2nd class Michael A. Moore, did what few men ever ventured to. An excerpt:
On September 29, 2006, the platoon engaged four insurgents in a firefight, killing one and injuring another. Anticipating further attacks, Monsoor, three SEAL snipers and three Iraqi soldiers took up a rooftop position. Civilians aiding the insurgents blocked off the streets, and a nearby mosque broadcast a message for people to fight against the Americans and the Iraqi soldiers. Monsoor was protecting other SEALs, two of whom were 15 feet away. His position made him the only SEAL on the rooftop with quick access to an escape route.
A grenade
was thrown onto the rooftop by an insurgent in the street below. The grenade hit Monsoor in the chest and fell onto the floor. Immediately, Monsoor fell onto and covered the grenade with his body, saving the lives of three people. Monsoor was critically wounded and, although evacuated immediately, died 30 minutes later. Two SEALs next to him were injured by the blast but lived.

Michael A. Monsoor's Medal of Honor, with the Navy SEAL Trident
A True Hero, Who Gave His Life in Service
He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. The US Military's highest award for combat chivalry.

Michael's Parents Receiving their son's medal posthumously
Just like a small tribute and thank you makes the day of any person for the things they have done for us, I will start by saying thank you to all who have helped me in anyway. I think we should all do this and extend our care to the people around us. This world will definitely be a better place.
This post is in honor not only of Michael A. Monsoor, but the countless other selfless heroes who gave their lives for a just cause, and for their loved ones back home. A salute, a tribute and a reminder for myself.
- Thunder Warrior -