Visiting Pearl Harbor filled me with an overwhelming reverence for those who chose “for country, for family” over self. The Arizona serves as a tomb for so many who were in the fight for our freedoms and a stark reminder of its costs.

My father, Ivan Schulze, wanted to join the fight during WWII “for country, for family.” He was denied entry into the US Army. He had a hernia. The only way he could join the fight was to have it surgically repaired. In the early 1940’s, health insurance wasn’t a thing, so he worked and saved his money to pay for a hernia repair.

In 1943 he joined the US Army and was deployed to the Pacific. He was sent to Okinawa. One of the most horrific battles in the war. I will never forget Dad telling me about reading the Bible front to back and the New Testament twice while in a foxhole. Dad was quiet about his faith, but it is what got him through the horrors of war. While his prayer to get home safely was answered, so many others did not get that answer.

^21-24 When I was beleaguered and bitter,
    totally consumed by envy,
I was totally ignorant, a dumb ox
    in your very presence.
I’m still in your presence,
    but you’ve taken my hand.
You wisely and tenderly lead me,
    and then you bless me. (Psalm 73 21-24 MSG).

We grieve those who chose “for country, for family” and did not return. We are filled with gratitude for all who have chosen to serve this country and maintain our freedoms. I pray all feel the closeness of God as Dad did.

Do you have a loved one who chose to serve? How do you honor their commitment to our freedoms? Share your story here to breathe life and bring hope to others.