Monday, January 5, 2009

Marine Sgt. Zachary Ross: American hero; Nashvillian sets the standard for love of country

Very soon, Marine Sgt. Zachary Ross of Nashville returns to the war on terror -- leading his unit for the fifth time in the theater of action.

Why the fifth time?

Yes, he loves his country. But more, he loves his men. And he returns because he knows -- that he knows best -- how to keep them alive and return them home to their loved ones.

The re-enlistment rate for the war on terror has been high. That's been hard for the news media to understand, let alone to prominently report.

Yet we should remember that the Zachs of our men and women in uniform are not there because they had no other choice due to their aptitude. That's been a slur uttered from Bill Maher to Sen. John Kerry.

In reality, they're there because they felt there was no other choice in their lives when their nation was at risk than to risk their lives and futures for us back home.

Zach has been in the Marines for six years now. He is 24. And I am honored that he considers me a friend. He even took time, with all that's facing him, to write and offer encouragement to me during my ongoing difficult days.

Semper Fi, indeed. Always faithful. His men are most fortunate to have him as protector and leader.

Zach's momma lives in Gallatin now. Donna Clemons is president of Tennessee Marine Family, an incredible organization of support that I was blessed to be part of at its beginning.

A graduate of East Magnet School, Zach carries Nashville with him into battle. So if you say prayers and live in Nashville, keep Sgt. Ross on your list and in your hearts.

He is the best of us, the most heroic in us and the greatest hope for us to win the war on terror by showing a greater love of country.

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