Freedom is a word that has many meanings. Everyone around the world holds a different value to the meaning of freedom. Some people in the world don’t have much freedom, while others do. Here in the United States we are very fortunate to have as much freedom as we do. However when we are expressing our gratitude for this freedom we have to remember that freedom has a cost and that we need to remember those who fought for us all to experience it.
This past wednesday at MPHS we brought to surface this topic for the students and community members. Luke Epple Jr., one of our social studies teachers, organized an assembly inviting local veterans and Michigan’s only surviving Medal Of Honor recipient to discuss the importance of Veterans Day. Jim C. McCloughan, 78 year old U.S Army Specialist five, spoke to the students at MPHS. He gave a heart moving speech bringing light the struggles of a veteran such as the veteran suicide rates, the PTSD rates, and the Importance of support after ones duties.
“You should always try to do something good or it isn’t worth trying at all.” Jim started his speech with this quote and it’s something that stuck with us. We reflected back on the assembly and both of us mentioned this quote and the meaning behind it. We felt that this quote is a great reminder for everyone of all ages to simply do your best and that’s all that matters. Throughout his speech he also discussed the effects of the military in his life as well as the lives around him. 22 US veterans commit suicide daily in the United States of America. So what can we do to make a difference?
Make sure that if you have a veteran in your life you make them feel heard and supported, it is incredibly important and can impact their lives. On top of that if you see a veteran in public feel free to thank them for their service and bravery. Even if you don’t know a veteran in your life there are hundreds of ways you can help within your community and nationwide. You can do something as simple as volunteer your evening at a soup kitchen or if you want to get more involved, there are many other opportunities such as 5ks, food drives, and donation spots.