I Found Something on the Greenbelt That Warmed My Heart Friday

I ran out to the Greenbelt on Thursday to catch some photos of the high rising Boise River. I saw something that warmed my heart and made me feel proud. I wanted to thank these men and women for what they do.

This is my image of the week. I took off across the parking in the rain to catch a quick photo and video of the high rising Boise River. I was trying to hurry, so I wouldn't get soaked as I splashed down deep into puddles saying, "damn!" I started taking photos from all different angles and turned around to thumping sounds of military issued boots. Men and women were steadily focused on their endurance training for the day. Notice the backpacks? Every one of those packs was jammed and strapped tightly to each soldier trucking up the Greenbelt.

Good afternoon sir.

I turned and realized there was a steady stream of these brave men and women get ready for something. It wasn't sixty seconds ago that I was worried about melting in the rain and selfishly irritated with my watery filled sock. I was now standing on the Greenbelt greeting them as they ran by. I was quickly reminded what else was happening in the world. I became overwhelmed with pride in these brave soldiers who were out there training to protect us. We forget these things because we're all so consumed with our own issues and rightfully so. I served, my family served, and my neighbors are serving. We can't forget or lose track.

I'm not interested who you voted for, and I surely don't judge you on your beliefs. The men and women who put on those uniforms each day are protecting our rights to believe what we want. They stand up so we can freely march down our streets and show everyone how we feel. Don't stand back, STAND UP. Believe in something and go for it today. We only have one life.

Staff Sgt. Alexandria Mae Morrow from Mountain Home's 366th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron paid the ultimate price last week for these same values we treasure. The airman was killed in Southwest Asia while performing maintenance duties. She volunteered to protect you and lay down her life for your family. The next time you see someone in uniform, don't just stand behind them in line waiting for your turn to check out.

Say, "thank you very much." That's the least we can do.