Sunday, January 18, 2009

Obama's visit to Tomb of Unknown provides much needed message to military and their families

The goodness in President-elect Barack Obama continues to shine, as today he made a surprise visit to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

With that one act, he confirmed his recognition of the sacrifice made to allow for a peaceful transition of power Jan. 20. He also confirmed that he knows the source that preserves all our freedoms -- the willingness of each man and woman to take an oath to put their very lives on the line to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution.

Obama comes from a political party that often aims scorn at the military. And that's why many members of the military vote against his party's candidates.

His willingness to go against the grain of his party with this act shows a sense of integrity that he carries into the White House.

In Nashville, the Music City USA Inaugural Ball on Tuesday will have the same significant recognition of the military with a salute to 44 members of the 101st Airbore in attendance, three Gold Star families and Marine Sgt. Zachary Ross, a Nashville native preparing to take his fifth tour of duty in the war on terror.

Tickets are still available by calling (615) 569-3010. The inagural balls in Washington will be on the big screens in the ballroom of the Millennium Maxwell House Hotel.

Michelle Obama also has distinguished herself in championing military families. While all the talk has been on how great a president her husband will be, there is every sign that his wife may well become the greatest first lady in this nation's history.

Dr. King, whose birthday we have celebrated today in church and tomorrow in the streets, would be most proud of this man. We should be, too.

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