On a snowy December evening in 1990 I dropped John off at a military base in Germany to board a bus with his Company to head to Operation Desert Shield and ultimately Operation Desert Storm. There was a flurry of activity and emotions as these soldiers prepared for the unknown. Hesitation, fear, excitement – each young man and woman carrying with them the hopes and prayers for their safe return from their friends and loved ones. Few get to the chance to lock eyes with people as they embark on a journey with an unknown ending. Such is the life of our service members and their loved ones. They live each day ready to serve and ready to sacrifice. Thank you John Engel for your dedication to our country and your willingness to defend freedom abroad. To all veterans and their families who sacrificed and fought, and to those who are currently defending freedom abroad, thank you for your service.
