The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

U.S.A. - United We Stand

by Dessa Rodeffer, Publisher/Owner

11 September 2002

Attending patriotic events is just another way we can each feel a part of this great nation we have been born priviledged to.

I don't say that lightly because I feel that most of us are citizens of this free country only because we were born here, and not because we actually paid a price for the privilege, or earned it by passing a naturalization test.

However, someone did pay the price for us..... and that is our servicemen and women.

Above, a Navy man Steve Harris, a Marine Corp Sergeant Clyde McBride, an Army Staff Sergeant Michael Towell, and a man who was in the Air Guard, Patrick Hall, represent those who make it possible for us to live in this wonderful free country.

Recently Patrick was activated into the Air Force and left the next day (Sunday) for a destination he could not disclose. He had been working in the Galesburg Police Dept. for four years.

Pictured at right, is his wife Michelle and one of his two sons Shane age 10. (Sean age 12, is not pictured but is nearby). His wife works at Community Bank, Galesburg.

In looking at the necessary steps it takes to become a citizen of this wonderful U.S.A., I know I and many others have taken our citizenship for granted while others must pay a price.

Whatever we can do to support our men and women in uniform, or our government officials, or our America in any way, let us do it as our forefathers and their families did before us. Together we must stand as a United force to help fight the forces that threaten freedom.

May we each say a pray and ask God to again bless our America and keep those who serve it safe.