Have you ever considered what motivates an average person to voluntarily join the United States military during a time of war?  What can be so compelling to make someone sacrifice all personal security?  The word patriotism and the synonymous phrase ‘for the love of country’ may come to mind, but what does that really mean?  


It does not take too much consideration to realize it does not mean being in love with a piece of land on a map.  


Love for, or devotion to, one's country means for the love of YOU.  These men and women are driven by a sense of duty born out of love for us.  As they leave home for boot camp each one is, by their actions, saying to every American, “You do not need to worry.  Stay here where you’re safe.  I got this.  I will protect you.”   


Collectively they make up the anonymous protective force that is responsible for the overall sense of peace that enables every American to enjoy their individual freedom.  However, so confident are we Americans in our peaceful freedom that we rarely make the connection.


As a veteran I’ve learned first hand that the United States military relies on the most powerful force in The Universe, and that power is Love.  Only through the power of Love can men and woman make decisions that consider the good of the group over self-centered fear.  Only by Love can wise decisions be made under fire.  Fear goes nowhere and hate, born out of fear, is nothing more than a fast burning fuse to self-destruction.  


Each year Veterans Day gives us all an opportunity to show appreciation to those who have demonstrated their appreciation for us by choosing to serve in the armed services. 




–Darrell Fusaro

Cartoonist Darrell Fusaro is a decorated United States Coast Guard veteran, co-host of the Funniest Thing! with Darrell and Ed [2] podcast and author of What If Godzilla Just Wanted a Hug? [3]