Veteran's Day

Veteran's day has caused me to think somewhat. I felt that I should take this opportunity to talk about veterans and their importance in each of our lives. Please indulge me as I talk about some of the veterans that have shaped my life.

Grandpa Dave Wettstein was in the the Air Force. He was a pilot during WWII, Korea and Vietnam. He raised 6 great children (one of which was my mother) and served those around him.

Papa Nick Athans was in the Army. He served in the Vietnam War. He raised 3 great children, one being my father. He was an example to me and all those around him.

Stephen Lee Athans, my father, also served in the Army and Reserves for a few years. He is the veteran that has changed my life more than any other veteran. (Side note: He was just released as an LDS Bishop after 4 ½ years of service.)

This has led me to think about what a veteran is. I think the greatest scriptural example of a veteran is that of Captain Moroni from the Book of Mormon. He said, “And it came to pass that he rent his coat; and he took a piece thereof, and wrote upon it—In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children—and he fastened it upon the end of a pole.” (Alma 46:12) This is what a veteran is. Someone that puts their lives on the line so that others can have the freedom to worship their God, practice their religion, exercise freedom and have peace individually and with their families. God bless all those that have done this in the past from Adam, to Moroni and on into the present day. I know that God understands the hearts of all the veterans and blesses them and their families with righteous desires. I am grateful for those veterans that have served the United States of America and those that continue to serve. God bless you.