My Dad is Donald N. Blanton, US Marine. If you know a Marine, you know "Once a Marine always a Marine." He served in Vietnam in the late 60's and early 70's. A number of men in my family have served this wonderful country and loved it when they did and still love it to this day. Serving his country made an ever lasting impression on my Dad. He would go back and fight today if they would let him. He is 63 now (sorry Dad - have to make a point) and too old to be active, but as I said "Once a Marine always a Marine." He now is very active with the Patriot Guard in the State of Maryland. Most people know who the Patriot Guard are but if you don't they attend the funerals of our young men and women who gave the ultimate for their country - their lives - and salute, say a prayer, and keep unwanted protesters from interfering in the privacy of the family. This is his ULTIMATE THANK YOU to these young heros. His way of paying his respects to all the men/women who lost their lives doing exactly what he did - PROTECTING THE RIGHTS OF OUR COUNTRY AND ALL THE PEOPLE WHO LIVE HERE. Thank you Dad, and all the men and women who have served, who are serving, and who will serve this country and its people. If you run into a Veteran or Active member of our military, take the time to shake their hand and thank them for their service. It's the least WE CAN DO. I love you Dad. YOU ARE MY DAD, MY HERO.
Tammie HarrisGlen Burnie, MD