Veterans made unparalleled sacrifices

I had the privilege of taking part in the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight from Cedar Rapids on June 5 as a guardian for my father, Robert Schurk.

We all talk about those “once in a lifetime” experiences, but this really was one of them for me. To witness bringing this elite group of men and women together to commemorate the sacrifices they made for our country was beyond anything I could have imagined.

Hearing their stories, as they spoke among themselves, made me realize how sheltered I have been from the harsh reality of what it takes to keep a nation safe. What a personal toll this must have taken, yet they returned from the war to get jobs, raise families and make this country (and each of us) what we are today.

I know this event was established as a way to show, in some small way, our nation's (and Eastern Iowa's) appreciation for all our veterans have done for us, and I know my father was thrilled. Yet, it may have served a greater purpose. Without doubt my father is part of the greatest generation to ever live. In my mind, I know (my generation) will never be able to give more, but for each of us who was fortunate enough to accompany one of these outstanding individuals on the Honor Flight, we have a renewed motivation to try.

David Schurk

Houston