With Thanks and Support for the Troops

by Tom Grovenstein
(Statesboro, GA )

Tom writes:

As I sit and ponder the great sacrifices that a relatively small group of American men and women have made - and continue to make - so that we (that big group of people you in the military call civilians) can live Free, I realize just how big of a deal it is that so few do so much for so many.

My father fought in WW II in the Pacific Theater of Operations and never said much about it. He saw it as a duty and did what was asked and then returned back to civilian life. My brother was a 25 year veteran in the Air Force during the '70s, 80s and 90s. He seldom speaks of it.

I say that to say that those of you who are out there right now doing what you do out of a sense of duty and honor of this country, I can only say "Thank You!"

Tomorrow is Veteran's Day. This is the one day when America gives y'all a collective Thank You.

This is a very good thing, but there is something I want to do. Something more. So, I ask that anyone who reads this message feel free to write me and begin a dialog. I have very little to offer other than my time and a sense of duty to do something - anything - to give back in some way.

Let me give a bit of information about who I am and what I like. First, I am 52 and own a small business in Statesboro, GA - home of Georgia Southern University and my team, the Eagles. I work 7 days a week, but that is a bit deceptive, as three of those days I work just a few hours cleaning restaurants.

I do general maintenance and a bit of landscape work, pressure washing, and other chores that my customers need. I don't make a lot of money, but I love what I do and enjoy meeting a bunch of really good people.

As for my "likes", I am an outdoors lover and - while not a "tree hugger" by any means - I enjoy going on long walks in the woods, hunt and fish, and try to visit new places as often as I can. There are a couple of good state parks within a short drive, each with their own special offerings.

Anyone who wishes to write is welcome to do so. I enjoy history and watching the politics of our world - although it sometimes becomes a bit depressing. Should there be a particular issue that you would like to opine on, I will do what I can to write a good response. If you have a special issue that you need to have someone pray about, I will be happy to do so.

For now, I close. Again, Thank You and May God Bless - each man and woman who serves so that I can be free - and know that you are appreciated, cared about and prayed for.

Respectfully,

Tom Grovenstein

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Tom, thank you so much for taking the time to write with your appreciation for all the men and women who have served our country.

I have removed your address for your protection, but anyone who would like to correspond with you can contact me, and I'll connect the two of you.