Sacrifice is a calling only the brave can hear.
I’ve seen bravery in the still innocent eyes of an Air Force para-jumper, who drops from helicopters on a thin cable to bring home fellow airmen.
I’ve seen bravery in the slumped shoulders of soldiers who disappear into the jungle at dusk, so that we could sleep to see another dawn.
I’ve seen bravery in the distant gaze of a “brown water” sailor, as he recalled navigating the Mekong River, knowing death could be waiting around every bend.
I’ve seen bravery in the tear-stained face of a young airwoman, who remotely monitored Hellfire Missiles as they streaked to earth, taking the lives of enemies and innocents alike.
I’ve seen bravery in the hand salutes on Veterans Day, of soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines, who answered their call to duty and served with honor.
All sacrificed some, some sacrificed all.
Paul Worsham
Arroyo Grande
A1C, USAF Tactical Communications
1963-1967, Vietnam 1965
This article appears in Nov 6 – Nov 13, 2025.