11/11/11 VETERAN'S DAY

111111. Interesting number and date this year. Veteran’s Day. Armistice Day. Remembrance Day. It is called my many names throughout the world. It is known by many names throughout our coalition here in Kandahar at the Role 3 Hospital as well. Our hospital is actually called “NATO Role 3, MMU.” The “MMU” stands for “Multinational Medical Unit,” which truly describes us. It was amazing this morning, to commemorate (I won’t say “celebrate,” as it is really not a day to “celebrate”) this day we had a ceremony outside the hospital, with many nations represented. To see all our flags together was impressive. Both our XO (a Canadian Colonel) and our CO (a US Navy Captain) spoke at the ceremony. A US Navy petty officer sang our National Anthem. A Canadian officer read the poem “In Flanders Field,” which was written by a Canadian during WWI. It was moving and brought tears to my eyes.

Later in the day, appropriately scheduled for Veteran’s Day, was the unveiling of our new Remembrance Wall at the Role 3 Hospital. It was a pictorial of the history of the hospital here, from the original tent/wood sided facility to the modern hospital that it is today. Many dignitaries and representatives of the seven coalition countries were present. To be a part of this was a very moving experience on this Veteran’s Day. It was a time for all of us to reflect upon those who have served and died around the world to make sure we have the countries and the freedoms we all enjoy today. It reminds me of the quote: “all gave some, and some gave all.” That truly sums up what our military is all about. I am proud and honored to be able to be here doing my part. God bless our veterans, both current and past, and God bless America.