Where we were... where we are going

I visited the National Aviation Museum of the US Air Force today here in Dayton. This is not my first visit, however it is the first in my adult life that I was there without a time constraint and limitations that kept me from enjoying it. Though I am not a veteran of the Air Force, I am a veteran, so the inspiration of the exhibit and the history still affects me and reminds me of my 8 years of service.
I could not help but be reflective of the recent anniversary of September 11, 2001. As I walked through President Kennedy's Air Force One, seeing where Lyndon Johnson was sworn in and where JFK's body was transported back, I was reflective of what I have always heard: 'I remember exactly what I was doing when Kennedy was shot'. The same is true of 9/11/01.
I was in school at Naval Air Station Pensacola, FL. I had just transferred from my last sea duty station and had then went to school in Norfolk, and was nearing completion in Florida. I was working on plans to spend my last couple of weekends with some friends in the Tampa area, when I called my wife during a break in class to say hello. She was in tears and was trying to explain what was happening when my instructor came to the room and quickly gathered us to talk about what was happening. After some debate, the base was closed down for 4 days and those of us with specialty qualifications in weapons and tactics were put on detail and watch till we found out what was going on.
Now, it didn't take the events of 9/11/01 to renew a sense of patriotism in my life. Anyone that knows me understands that. However, 7 years later, I find myself reflecting on my 8 years of service and what I think we should do as a country to instill some of that value in others.
First, all high school graduates or persons that reach 18 should be required to give 2 years in service to the country. Military, public service, whatever. Service in our country and for its people may in fact curve violence, crime and dis functionality that makes this country crippled.
Second, we as citizens should take a more proactive approach in our governments operations. Be a Republican. Be a Democrat. Be a Libertarian. WHO CARES! Be active and effect change! Volunteer with your party of choice. Educate yourself in the views and make informed votes. But vote. Be active.
Lastly, be proud of your heritage. Be proud of yourself. And be proud of your country. If you don't like something, don't complain. Act. If you don't think your getting a fair shake, work harder to get it. If you think you can't do it, keep trying till you can.
We have a long way to go. Seven years ago our integrity was questioned. Seven years ago villains attempted to threaten our sovereignty. However, we stood strong. We made it through. We came back and stood taller and stronger than ever before.
As Timothy said in his second book of the New Testament, 'I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith'. You should too.