Allen West: Memorial Day Is About Those Who Gave Something Greater Than Themselves
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Former Congressman, Colonel and the current President of the National Center for Policy Analysis, Allen West, spoke with Dom Giordano on Talk Radio 1210 WPHT about the greater meaning of Memorial Day.
West said the holiday is about making sure American's never forget those who died in combat defending their liberty.
"Those of us who have been through the crucible of combat, we always ask ourselves why were we allowed to survive encounters and that endeavor and it's because we have to tell the message of service, sacrifice and commitment. We have to tell the message of those who did give that last full measure of devotion for this great nation. For me, it is important remember those who lost their lives and to tell the story so the American people never forget."
He stated he was inspired to join the military from his father and by an obligation to contribute to the story of America
"The motivation for came from a dad who was part of that greatest generation who served in combat in the European theater and him telling me on the steps of our house at 651 Kennesaw Avenue that the greatest honor that he had was wearing the uniform of this nation. That was passed to my older brother, who was a Marine infantryman, passed to me and now, the fourth generation is my nephew who is a Major in the Army serving. He's already done two tours of duty in Afghanistan. I think a part of it is a legacy of family service that we have in this country to go on back to the men who answered the call at Lexington Green and Concord Bridge, but it is a call to something that is greater than yourself."