An Act of Thankfulness

There are certain careers that often times do not get the thanks that they deserve.

Doctors and lawyers are often in this category. People appreciate that they have a large earning potential, but they do not seem to recognize that their skill set is mostly based in their knowledge. Therefore, you hear of stories all the time of folks meeting a doctor or lawyer at a party or get-together and asking them for professional advice. This would be the equivalent of asking a professional baker for a free cake. We would usually never be so bold.

In the Army we recognize that there are some folks who have an intellectual skill-set that we appreciate. Specifically, locally, a professor who is very knowledgeable in the realm of Islam, the Taliban, and middle Eastern culture. So we invited him to come and share with us, and we offered to pay him for his time. He accepted our offer to come, but declined the offer for payment. He appreciates everything that our military does and is happy to support us. But we wanted to do something to say, "thank you."

He asked for some items for his grandchildren because they really enjoy the Army, and that got us thinking. Needless to say, our leadership came up with some really great ideas. So much so that it hit the local paper.

Here is the link: http://www.theleafchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2009908220323

We really appreciate the professor and all of his work and study. Thank you so much for sharing with us.

Hoo-ah!