As I sat and watched the celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States Army on my television, my heart swelled with pride – and at the same time, ached with sorrow.
Pride, because I am the mother of sons who have served in the U.S. Army and the Army National Guard. Their courage, discipline, and selfless service reflect all that is noble about this nation. I see their commitment as a continuation of a long, unbroken legacy of brave men and women who have answered the call to defend freedom, not only for our country, but for others around the globe.
The United States Army was founded on June 14, 1775 – an entire year before our nation even declared its independence. For 250 years, soldiers have stood watch through war and peace, at home and abroad, with boots laced in honor. To them, and to every Army veteran and service member, I say from the depths of my heart: Thank you! Your service is not forgotten. Your sacrifice was not in vain. Your courage is the very foundation of the liberty we enjoy today.
But as I celebrated, I could not ignore the growing divisions in our country. I saw people in the streets protesting – not just against policy, but against the very principles that bind us together. It saddened me deeply. While some march in the name of personal expression, others have lost sight of the unifying ideals that define us as “one nation under God.”
I ask: How can one desire the benefits of living in this country, yet wave the flag of another while burning our own? That is not protest – that is hatred.
I do not wish to silence anyone’s freedom to protest. That very right has been defended by soldiers who gave their lives. But I ask: on this historic day, the U.S. Army’s birthday, can we not stand together? Can we not honor those who serve with unity, gratitude, and respect?
Our nation has faced hardship before now. We have overcome great trials – not by tearing each other down, but by coming together, hand in hand, heart to heart. That same spirit must guide us now. The Army’s birthday was more than a celebration of military history; it was a reminder that freedom comes at a cost and that unity has always been worth the effort.
Today, I remember the values instilled in my sons through their service – duty, honor, loyalty, and courage. I pray that these same values would once again become the compass guiding our national discourse.
Happy 250th birthday, United States Army.May God bless every soldier, every veteran, and may He continue to bless the United States of America.
Nickie McCarty is the State Director for Concerned Women for America (CWA) of New Mexico. She is also a former educator and athletic director.As I sat and watched the celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States Army on my television, my heart swelled with pride – and at the same time, ached with sorrow.
