Again, it was not my intent to do anything but to highlight the sacrifice of Captain Ross and the sacrifice all who serve in the military endure. I honestly did not think anything I wrote would be controversial, but I guess it was so I feel I have to respond.
The lens of experience will always have an impact on one's life. Part of my experience was being present on more than one occasion as coffins were loaded on transports for the long journey home during the surge. Every time my heart broke for the families involved. Wives, husbands, mothers, fathers, and children who were being notified. I can not fathom the grief that must be experienced by someone losing a "child". Occasionally I'm reminded of this again when I see families gathering at the West Point cemetery on the anniversary of a loved one's death.
Then, ten years later I went through the gut-wrenching experience of sending one of my children off to war. Yes, again. The lens of this experience had an impact on me. I understand what it's like to send a child off to war. It sucks.
So while West Point may be "free" of a monetary cost, it is not free of all costs. There is a service obligation that goes along with the education. An obligation that extends to families that endure the separation of a loved one for long periods, and sometimes even the grief of the ultimate sacrifice. That is why I hate the reference to a "free" education.
So yes, remember Captain Ross for he paid the ultimate price. But also remember and pray for his family and the other families of those who lost their lives in the past month. If you're so inclined may they be in your prayers and may they also be at peace and find comfort. Please let it be about them and not some wrongs you may perceive I committed.
