Inherited Freedom

I have always loved books. My mother placed a book in my hands along with a baby bottle and by the time I was four I could read. Since that time, I have read almost any and every book that I could.  So, with that history and being an author myself, I am always checking out book titles. When I saw the title of Tim Drake’s new book, Inherited Freedom, I was hooked.

In this beautifully crafted book, Mr. Drake outlines in the lives of his two grandfathers, World War II Veterans, the concept that the freedom that we all enjoy in America is an “Inherited Freedom”. This is not a book review, but you need to read this book. You will never see a soldier in uniform or a Veteran the same again. A large dose of pride and gratitude will fill your heart as you begin to understand the high cost of our freedom.                                         

 America needs to hear this concept over and over again this Fourth of July season. Each time you see the flag wave, hear a marching band play a patriotic song, sing God Bless America or do something as simple as eat an all American hot dog with you family, remember you do so because you have inherited this great freedom from the generations who have gone on ahead.

These generations have given their lives and their families have sacrificed deeply to keep us safe and free. Chairs sit vacant around kitchen tables waiting for soldiers to come home that never will. Cross covered cemeteries tell countless stories of bravery throughout our land and the world.

Let me just mention two of the ways that Inherited Freedom challenges us. First, this concept calls us to respect and honor those who stood and protected us and our families. I have in my hand my Uncle Bill’s U.S. Marine Corps knife. He carried this knife all across the pacific theater as a combat soldier. He passed away a number of years ago and I was given his knife. Each time I open it I wonder where and how he used it while he stood up for freedom and fought for America. Just holding it gives me a feeling of pride and patriotism. So, when you see that older man or woman with the veteran’s hat waving a flag at the parade this year, take your kids in tow and make a point to say thank you for his service. Then, explain to your kids why you did so.

Secondly, this concept challenges us to step up, stand up and do our part to keep America great. Not only have I “inherited the rewards of freedom”, but I have also “inherited the responsibility” of freedom. President Ronald Reagan compared America to a “city of light set upon a hill”. We must realize that this light of freedom was fueled by the lives of those who were willing to give so that others might have. It is now our responsibility to fuel that light.

You can get this wonderful book at Amazon.com, Tim Drake’s web site www.inheritedfreedom.com  or ask for it at your local book store.  It is a must for any veteran and their family or for any American and their family. God bless America and I hope that you will have a wonderful Fourth of July . . . .

Joey Hancock   

Copy write Joey Hancock 2009