I had the unique opportunity to go to Iraq for 14 days to visit the troops in 2010. What an eye opener. It is extremely hard to explain but, I feel that some Americans don’t understand the extent to what our soldiers and the families of our soldiers endure on a daily basis. I hate to admit but, I didn’t fully understand until I was subjected to it first hand. It’s a different life. It’s not an easy task being in an environment like that day in and day out for months on end. And the kids, husbands, wives, and parents who have to wait at home praying for the safety of their loved ones…it’s intense. Everything is more intense and real when you get to experience it first hand. So, we ask that you please take a moment to try and imagine what our soldiers and their families really do. Regardless of your political viewpoint, please take a moment and appreciate this act of selfless courage. From the bottom of our hearts we thank all those who have served and still serve our country.