In his memoir From the Hood to the Hill, Senate Chaplain Barry Black, former Chief Chaplain of the United States Navy, explains how he went from an antiwar protestor to someone with the deepest respect for the military as a school of character. Above all, he talks about how our men and women in uniform, and their families, live lives of sacrifice as they embrace a larger mission than their own personal welfare.

As we celebrate our second anniversary with the Veterans Day launch of Great Americans on http://www.hulu.com/great-americans we asked Chaplain Black to share his thoughts on the significance of Veterans Day for our nation. His words on the price paid by our veterans should remind us all that freedom is not free and our Americans in uniform and their families are the ones who pay most of our share:

We owe our veterans a debt of gratitude for their many sacrifices. They are our citizens who have paid the cost of freedom. Whether they served in a World War or are just returning from Iraq or Afghanistan, their courage and commitment deserve our tangible appreciation. Some were wounded in battle and will carry the scar for life. Others suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, making some prone to violence, addictions, divorce, and suicide. They have earned the right to see our gratitude revealed through prompt, high-quality medical care at no expense to them or their families.
Fellow veterans, I salute you for your service and pray that God will compensate you for your sacrificial giving. He has promised to supply all of your needs (Philippians 4:19).  

Rear Admiral Barry Black (Ret.), US Navy
Chaplain of the United States Senate