While driving through town last week, I noticed several signs and banners welcoming folks home. From posts on Facebook and from talking with others I knew, the signs were meant to welcome home military servicmen and servicewomen.

I cannot imagine the excitement that the families of these Marines have built up inside them knowing that they will get to see their loved one in person.

Even though we have Skype, Facebook, email, smartphones and many types of technology, nothing can possibly compare with seeing your son, daughter, grandchild, niece or nephew – or even a good friend – walking toward you and knowing they are out of harm’s way, even for a short period of time. Not being able to see your loved one for an extended period of time is hard on families, but knowing they are in danger many times almost constantly must be one of the most difficult things families have to endure.

Emotions run high with these reunions. The pride that families have for their soldier is so amazing. The amount of patriotism that is witnessed makes one proud to be a citizen of this country. These family members are sharing their loved ones with this nation and we should all be grateful for this.

The young men and women who have chosen to serve their country are brave and unselfish to dedicate themselves to this mission. Their love of country is so obvious and the fact that our military is completely made up of volunteers just makes them all the more special. When so many other countries force military service on their citizens and we have so many volunteering, it makes your heart swell with pride.

When we see an American soldier, we need to all make sure that we stop and thank them for their service. Without the soldiers defending our freedom and our way of life, our country would not be the great nation that we call the United States of America.

Thank you to all of those serving in the military for all that you do and sacrifice to defend our home land. Also thank you to the families who are left behind while their sons and daughters serve so courageously.

May God Bless you and keep you safe from all harm.

Randy Garrison is the president and publisher of the Hartselle Enquirer.