Remember the meaning behind July 4

To the editor:
    Soon it will be the Fourth of July. A few years ago, I had the honor of attending a July 4th celebration, along with a massive crowd of people, in Salt Lake City, Utah. The fireworks were spectacular as well as a very boisterous crowd. Then came the grand finale and before it was done, music started. It was not loud but soft and gentle; patriotic songs of old and new. I sat there shocked at the drastic change in this massive crowd. Complete silence and respect which I have never seen at such a gathering. Between songs, I heard soft weeping from many and I knew they had someone far away on a lonely battlefield, fighting for me. Tears ran down my face as I watched heads bowed and men not ashamed to cry.
    Little did I know that this July 4th, my family will join those other moms and dads, brothers and sisters, as our son will be joining his National Guard and Marine Corp brothers in Afghanistan. Our freedom is not free, it comes with a great, great sacrifice.
    We have so many from our little neck of the woods this 4th of July who will be far away. Some parents are carrying the burden of two and three sons serving for us. Please support our sons and daughters by displaying a yellow ribbon. Some towns are beautiful with their flags of support, some are sadly lacking for their soldiers.
    Remember, when you decide to party this 4th of July, two defining forces have ever offered to die for you. First, our beloved Lord Jesus Christ and second, a beloved soldier son or daughter, somewhere on a lonely field; for one died for your soul and one died for your freedom.
    This is for you, our son and brother, Devin C. Slauenwhite, Dyer Brook and West Jordan, Utah. We love and support you today and for all time.
Carolee Slauenwhite
Dyer Brook