Take time to pause and say thanks

During this next week, take the time to say “thank you” to someone who has taken this oath:

“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.”

Those who have served this great nation have done so in times of peace and war. They are America’s Veterans and Military, more than 25 million living. They protect and defend our country, stay the course and allow us to live the American Dream.

It is with great hope and pride that they serve and sacrifice, not even looking at it as such. Their families stand beside them so that their loved one may allow each of us to live in this free country! Our communities rally behind them by flying their flags, hanging yellow ribbons, contributing items and finances so that the organizations sending care packages overseas and attending to our VA hospitals and homes may continue to touch our military and our veterans’ lives.

This week, reflect back over the years and about who in this community has served, and how you can affect their life by saying that simple phrase: Thank you. We can all do so with pride because it is due to their sacrifice that we are allowed to speak freely and say something so simple that would affect someone’s life so greatly! Thank you, veterans!

Merinda Mullins

President, Washington Chapter No. 1

Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc.

Lake Stevens

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

toon
Editorial cartoons for Friday, June 13

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

In a gathering similar to many others across the nation on Presidents Day, hundreds lined Broadway with their signs and chants to protest the Trump administration Monday evening in Everett. (Aaron Kennedy / Daily Herald)
Editorial: Let’s remember the ‘peaceably’ part of First Amendment

Most of us understand the responsibilities of free speech; here’s how we remind President Trump.

The Buzz: ‘Your majesty, the peasants are revolting!’

Well, that’s a little harsh, but we’re sure the ‘No Kings’ protesters clean up well after their marches.

Schwab: Why keep up nonviolent protests? Because they work

Our greatest democratic victories came on the heels of massive, nationwide demonstrations.

Bouie: Trump’s weaknesses show through theater of strength

His inability to calmly confront opposition and respond with force betrays brittleness and insecurity.

Add your voice to protect freedoms at No Kings Day protests

Imagine it’s 2045. Nationwide, women have been fully stripped of rights to… Continue reading

Shouldn’t we value diversity, equity and inclusion?

If one were asked to describe the American Dream in a nutshell,… Continue reading

Why are we rooting against victims in Ukraine, Gaza?

When did we as a nation become less empathetic, less sympathetic, more… Continue reading

Trump should cancel Musk’s access to our personal data

Loved the recent editorial cartoons about the Trump-Musk feud. Now, if Donald… Continue reading

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer testifies during a budget hearing before a House Appropriations subcommittee on Capitol Hill in Washington on Thursday, May 15, 2025. (Al Drago/The New York Times)
Editorial: Ending Job Corps a short-sighted move by White House

If it’s jobs the Trump administration hopes to bring back to the U.S., it will need workers to fill them.

A rendering of possible configuration for a new multi-purpose stadium in downtown Everett. (DLR Group)
Editorial: Latest ballpark figures drive hope for new stadium

A lower estimate for the project should help persuade city officials to move ahead with plans.

A rendering of the new vessels to be built for Washington State Ferries. (Washington State Ferries)
Editorial: Local shipyard should get shot to build state ferries

If allowed to build at least two ferries, Nichols Brothers can show the value building here offers.

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.