Sabrina L. Baker Author/Photographer
As the flags wave proudly and the sounds of summer fill the air, we are reminded that freedom is not free. Freedom is earned repeatedly by the brave men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. For those of us who have watched loved ones ship off to serve, or who have stood on Main Street as a local parade passed by, the sight of that uniform stirs something deep within: respect, pride, and, most of all, gratitude.
Here in our community, many families have a connection to military service. Some remember the long wait for letters from Vietnam or Korea. Others sent sons and daughters to Iraq or Afghanistan. Some served themselves, carrying the memories and lessons of those years with quiet dignity. No matter the era, one thing remains constant—our troops represent the best of who we are: courageous, selfless, and committed to something greater than themselves.
It is easy to think of appreciation in terms of holidays. Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and Independence Day certainly shine a spotlight on service, but the real work of gratitude happens in everyday life. It is the wave and “thank you” at the gas station when you spot a veteran’s hat. It is supporting a neighbor whose spouse is deployed. It is attending a military funeral or standing in silent respect as a flag is folded and handed to a grieving family.
What many civilians may not fully realize is the depth of sacrifice service members make—especially the young ones. Some barely out of high school are trained and tasked with responsibilities that carry life-and-death consequences. They miss holidays, family milestones, and the comfort of home. And yet, they serve willingly, believing in duty, honor, and the protection of liberty.
And let us not forget the families—the husbands and wives who hold down the fort at home, the parents who worry each day, and the children who go to bed missing Mom or Dad. Their strength is often quiet but no less important. They serve too, in their own way.
Here in Surry County and surrounding areas, we have a long tradition of patriotism. We fly the flag, we stand for the anthem, and we take pride in our local veterans. But there is always more we can do. We can support businesses that hire veterans. We can donate to groups that help service members transition back to civilian life. We can teach our grandchildren what it means to serve—what it really means—so that gratitude is passed down, not just felt in the moment.
Many of us grew up in a time when service was more common—when draft cards were real, and the sound of military cadence on TV was not just part of a movie. We knew people who served, and we knew what they gave up doing it. That understanding gives us a special role: to help the next generation appreciate what it means to put on that uniform.
In today’s fast-paced, digital world, it is easy for that kind of appreciation to become just a quick post on social media. But sincere gratitude is lived out. It is in supporting policies that care for veterans’ health. It is in advocating for mental health resources. It is in listening to a veteran’s story, even if it is hard to hear.
Our troops do not ask for much. They do not serve for praise. Most would tell you they were just doing their job. But that is exactly why we must recognize them—not just with words, but with action. Because the freedoms we enjoy every day—freedom of speech, worship, opportunity, and safety—are held up by the strong hands and willing hearts of those who serve.
So, as summer settles over our town and the fireworks light up the night sky, let us remember who that celebration is really for. It is for the people who gave up their comfort, and in some cases their lives, so that we can live ours freely.
To our local heroes, and to all who serve: thank you. Your courage inspires us. Your sacrifice humbles us. And your legacy lives on in every free breath we take.
