Quest for Honor

Butch delivered in his speech today, at the memorial on Main Street, where 66 names of honored military men were recalled, a most unusual story. He quoted from the letter of a survivor, who was alive as a result of the action of the pilot of the failed aircraft, having rescued, by ejection, his crew. The letter was addressed to the wife of the deceased pilot. The ending is what struck me. All men will die, one or two ways. He died a hero.

Yesterday, we got the same message in church, recalling the martyrs and saints who are remembered for their courage and strength. They died for the sake of Christ who came into this world, destined for Glory. They are the hero's of the Church.

A few days ago, I watched a movie about Troy. Most of us have read the story about the Trojan War, and at least remember the part about the Trojan Horse. The Hero of this story, was played by "Brad Pitt," one of the greatest warriors of all time. Achilles, was warned by his mother that if he stayed he would be married and have children and grandchildren, who would remember his passing. But, if he went to Troy, there would not be a long and comfortable life, but an end to his life, and she would not see him again. He went to Troy as he was destined for honor. He chose glory. We have all heard of Achilles Heel, or the weak spot in a person's heal. This honor was derived by the arrow that was his weak spot. It lead to his death. His greatness and fame would be known throughout generations.

Every age has it's hero's and we remember their names and honor them for their deeds. This morning the bell rang for those who served our country and passed on this year. They are our hero's, born into this world to be honored, destined for greatness, choosing glory, and sometimes, the ultimate price. We read their names and speak of their deeds.

Father Charlie said the opening prayer, handwritten by a soldier that lost his life just after the letter was written to God saying that he was not afraid because he knew that God was near. He didn't know God until meeting Him in the battlefield.

Today we honored our Hero's. It was not quantity, certainly, it was quality.