To Remember and Honor: In My Own Unique Way by Margo Hoornstra

It's September 11th again. As I do here each year, I ask you to join me in remembering how fragile and precious our many freedoms are. And to acknowledge and honor those brave individuals who knowingly enter into harm's way to preserve those freedoms for us.

In addition to those who serve on our behalf in foreign lands who so deserve our gratitude, so too do the men and women of law enforcement here at home. As one who has spent many years, first as a spouse, then mother to members of the profession, police officer heroes have a special place in my heart.

In that spirit, I created the four book Brothers in Blue series. Four heroes who met at the police academy and became life long friends. The dropout, the straight arrow, the movie star and the maverick. All share a passion to serve and protect, each in their own unique way.

On The Surface, Book 1 - Is available now.

He sought vengeance only to discover love.

On The Force, Book 2 - Comes out October 29th.

Losing her job was nothing compared to the prospect of losing her life.

My days to blog here are the 11th and 23rd. For more about me and the stories I write, please visit my WEBSITE

Remembering September 11, 2001: And A Tribute To Our Many Heroes by Margo Hoornstra

 

 

Fifteen years ago today, our nation, the United States of America, was forever changed. But was it really? Maybe we're more aware of the great freedoms we have in this country--and, because of that, what we have to lose. In my opinion, though, we're still okay. Because we're fortunate for those in our military and the law enforcement community so dedicated and devoted to serve, protect and keep us all safe.

 

 

 

I'm honored to be the friend, granddaughter, daughter, sister, niece, cousin, wife and mother to some of them.

Please join me in remembering, and honoring, so many, many heroes who live among us.

For me, it never gets old, or taken for granted. Each and every time I think of those courageous individuals and what they do.

It takes my breath away every time.

Thank you all.

My days to blog here are the 11th and 23rd. I can also be found at:

www.margohoornstra.com

Honoring Those Who Serve

At my age, few things actually blow me away these days. Four kids raised to adulthood and now with an assortment of grandkids in the mix, not a lot surprises me.

Though there is one thing that fills me with awe and chokes me up every time – and has to do with those individuals we honor and celebrate today – Veterans Day 2015. Those fellow citizens of ours who are willing to put aside the comforts of hearth and home, to enter harm’s way for us. All to defend and preserve the lifestyle we all hold dear.

Our Freedom.

Brett, my insightful and brilliant grandson (but aren’t they all?) provided his take on this in an essay he wrote a few years ago. The one I framed and display in my living room. He was chosen to broadcast his work over the public address system at school. This is what he said.

“Every year on November 11^th the United States honors those who have served in our armed forces. The holiday originally marked the anniversary of the Armistice between the Allies and Germany. The signing effectively ended all fighting in World War I. However, in 1954 Congress approved a name change from Armistice Day to Veterans Day. This was done as a tribute to honor and thank all veterans of all wars. On Veterans Day it is encouraged to fly flags at full staff in observance of the holiday. At this time, we would like to take a moment of silence to honor all the service men and women who have died.”

As he suggests, shall we take that moment?

 

 

Thank you. And thank them.

I would only add, as the Disabled American Veterans remind us – Freedom Is Not Free.

 

Just ask those who have sacrificed so much – for you and for me.

 

Margo Hoornstra

www.marghoornstra.com