W ith a thundering 21-gun salute and the sweet strains of patriotic melodies echoing across the LSU Parade Ground, the new LSU War Memorial was officially dedicated on Thursday, Oct. 8. Maybe that's why, as someone who believes in duty, honor, country, I always feel at home here. Also performing were the 156th Army Band, directed by CW2 Myron J. Turner Jr. and the LSU Tiger Band, directed by Frank B. Wickes. In his address, Bush expressed his gratitude to the families of those who lost their lives in an effort to protect the nation's freedom. Sherman, of course, knew of which he spoke.
War is hell, and few people know that more than the families who have lost a loved one in battle.
Such scars run deep, but they are not without purpose, for this nation has not asked its own to die in vain. Bush said the memorial should also serve to remind future generations of the high price of freedom. The students here at LSU have a bigger stake in what's going on in the world than many realize. Service to the nation's military is an honorable calling, Bush told the students. Yours is the next American generation called to duty, and as you prepare for the challenges that lie ahead, I wish you Godspeed.