Oliver Owl Learns Why We Honor Veterans - A Children's Story

 

Oliver Owl Learns Why We Honor Veterans

Moral of the Story:

Veterans are men and women who served in the military to help protect our nation, our freedoms, and our way of life. Throughout America's history, brave individuals have stepped forward to serve when their country called upon them. Some served during times of peace, while others served during times of war and danger. Veterans sacrificed time with their families, endured difficult conditions, and accepted great responsibility in order to protect the freedoms we enjoy every day. Freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom to vote, and freedom to pursue our dreams have all been preserved by generations of Americans willing to serve. Honoring veterans is a way of saying thank you for their courage, sacrifice, and commitment. We may never fully understand all they have done, but we can always show gratitude, respect, and appreciation. When we honor veterans, we remember that freedom is precious and that many brave Americans helped preserve it for future generations.

The autumn leaves were turning shades of red, orange, and gold throughout Woodland Valley.

Oliver Owl loved autumn.

He loved the crisp air.

He loved the colorful leaves.

And he especially loved learning new things.

One chilly November morning, Oliver noticed American flags lining Main Street.

Red, white, and blue banners hung from buildings.

Families gathered in Freedom Square.

Veterans Memorial Park was decorated with flowers and flags.

Oliver tilted his head.

"Why is everyone gathering today?" he asked.

Just then, Liberty Eagle landed beside him.

"Today is Veterans Day."

Oliver blinked.

"What is Veterans Day?"

Liberty smiled warmly.

"Come with me."

Soon they arrived at Veterans Memorial Park.

Benny Bear.

Ruby Rabbit.

Freddie Fox.

Samuel Squirrel.

Daisy Deer.

And Patrick the Patriot Eagle were already there.

Families sat quietly.

A large American flag waved gently in the breeze.

At the center of the park stood several older animals wearing military uniforms.

Oliver looked at them carefully.

"Who are they?"

"They are veterans," said Liberty.

"What is a veteran?" asked Oliver.

"A veteran is someone who served in the military."

"The Army."

"The Navy."

"The Air Force."

"The Marine Corps."

"The Coast Guard."

"And the Space Force."

The young animals listened carefully.

"Why did they serve?" asked Benny.

Liberty pointed toward the American flag.

"They served to help protect our country."

"They served to help preserve freedom."

"They served because they believed something bigger than themselves was worth protecting."

Oliver looked thoughtful.

"What freedoms?"

Liberty smiled.

"The freedom to speak."

"The freedom to worship."

"The freedom to vote."

"The freedom to learn."

"The freedom to pursue our dreams."

"The freedoms we have been learning about all year."

The young animals nodded.

Just then, an elderly turtle named Sergeant Thomas slowly approached.

His uniform was neatly pressed.

Several medals decorated his chest.

"May I tell them a story?" he asked.

"We would be honored," said Liberty.

The turtle smiled.

"When I was young, I joined the military."

"Were you afraid?" asked Daisy.

"Sometimes."

"Were you far from home?"

"Very far."

"Did you miss your family?"

"Every day."

The young animals listened quietly.

"Then why did you do it?" asked Oliver.

Sergeant Thomas looked at the flag.

"Because some things are worth protecting."

"Freedom."

"Family."

"Faith."

"Country."

The park became very quiet.

Next, a rabbit named Captain Rachel stepped forward.

She had served as a military nurse.

"I helped care for injured service members."

"Were you brave?" asked Ruby.

Rachel smiled.

"Many people were much braver than I was."

"But we all worked together."

"Everyone had a job."

"Everyone served."

Then Patrick pointed toward a wall covered with names.

"What is that?" asked Freddie.

Liberty lowered her head respectfully.

"Those are the names of heroes who never came home."

The young animals grew silent.

For a moment, nobody spoke.

Oliver looked at the names.

Hundreds of names.

Hundreds of stories.

Hundreds of sacrifices.

He suddenly understood why everyone seemed so respectful.

Later, a bugler played a beautiful song.

The flag fluttered softly.

Families stood quietly.

Veterans saluted.

The young animals placed their paws, wings, and hooves over their hearts.

After the ceremony, Oliver sat beside Liberty beneath a large oak tree.

"What did you learn today?" she asked.

Oliver thought carefully.

"I learned that veterans sacrificed for us."

Benny nodded.

"They protected our freedoms."

Ruby smiled.

"They served others."

Freddie added.

"They showed courage."

Samuel nodded.

"They put duty before comfort."

Finally, Oliver spoke.

"I learned that freedom is not free."

Liberty smiled proudly.

"Exactly."

As the sun began setting, the veterans slowly made their way home.

The young animals waved.

"Thank you for your service!" they called.

The veterans smiled.

Some saluted.

Some waved.

Some simply nodded.

That evening, Oliver looked at the American flag outside Woodland School.

For the first time, he understood something important.

Every freedom he enjoyed had been protected by people willing to sacrifice.

People willing to serve.

People were willing to stand watch while others slept peacefully.

People called veterans.

And from that day forward, whenever Oliver saw a veteran, he remembered to say two simple words.

"Thank you."

Moral of the Story Poem:

Veterans served both near and far.
Protecting freedoms where we are.
With courage, duty, strength, and pride,
They stood for what was right and tried.

We thank them for the paths they paved,
And for the freedoms they helped save.
Honor veterans every day.
And show your gratitude along the way.

Discussion Questions:

1.     What is a veteran?

2.     Why do we celebrate Veterans Day?

3.     What freedoms have veterans helped protect?

4.     Why did Sergeant Thomas choose to serve?

5.     How can children show appreciation to veterans?

6.     What does the phrase "freedom is not free" mean?

7.     Why is it important to remember the sacrifices veterans have made?

 

Ruby Rabbit Learns About Freedom and Responsibility - A Children's Story

 

Ruby Rabbit Learns About Freedom and Responsibility

Moral of the Story

Freedom is one of the greatest gifts we have, but every freedom comes with responsibility. True freedom does not mean doing whatever we want whenever we want. It means making good choices, respecting others, obeying the law, and using our freedoms wisely. The freedoms Americans enjoy today were preserved through the sacrifices of many brave men and women throughout history. Freedom of speech allows us to share our ideas, but we must speak with kindness and respect. Freedom of religion allows us to worship God according to our beliefs while respecting the beliefs of others. Freedom gives us opportunities, but responsibility helps us use those opportunities wisely. When freedom and responsibility work together, communities become stronger, families become stronger, and nations become stronger. Good citizens understand that preserving freedom requires character, self-discipline, respect, gratitude, and a commitment to doing what is right.

Ruby Rabbit loved freedom.

She loved running through the meadows.

She loved exploring Woodland Valley.

She loved making her own choices.

One beautiful spring morning, Ruby hopped happily down a trail.

As she passed Freedom Oak, she noticed Liberty Eagle speaking with several young animals.

Benny Bear.

Samuel Squirrel.

Olivia Owl.

Freddie Fox.

Daisy Deer.

"Can I join you?" Ruby asked.

"Of course," said Liberty.

"We are talking about freedom."

Ruby smiled.

"I love freedom."

Liberty chuckled.

"Most people do."

"But today we are going to learn something very important."

"What?" asked Ruby.

"Freedom and responsibility always travel together."

Ruby looked confused.

"What does that mean?"

Liberty smiled.

"Let's find out."

The group began walking through Woodland Valley.

Soon they reached Community Park.

Children were playing everywhere.

Some were using the swings.

Others were playing soccer.

Some were enjoying a picnic.

Everyone appeared happy.

"Why does this work?" asked Liberty.

The animals shrugged.

"No one is pushing others."

"No one is breaking equipment."

"No one is ruining the fun."

"Everyone is using their freedom responsibly."

The animals nodded.

Next, they visited Woodland School.

Students filled the classrooms.

Teachers helped children learn.

"What freedoms do we see here?" asked Liberty.

Olivia raised her wing.

"Freedom to learn."

"Excellent."

"And what responsibility comes with that freedom?"

Samuel answered.

"Pay attention."

"Study."

"Work hard."

"Exactly."

The group continued to Freedom Hall.

An American flag waved proudly above the building.

"What freedoms do Americans enjoy?" asked Liberty.

The animals quickly responded.

"Freedom of speech."

"Freedom of religion."

"Freedom to assemble."

"Freedom to pursue our dreams."

Liberty smiled.

"Very good."

"But what responsibilities come with those freedoms?"

The animals thought carefully.

Finally, Ruby answered.

"When we speak, we should be respectful."

"Excellent."

"When we disagree, we should be kind."

"Very good."

"When we worship, we should respect others."

"Exactly."

As they continued walking, they noticed a young squirrel throwing trash on the ground.

Liberty stopped.

"Does freedom mean he can litter?"

The animals shook their heads.

"No."

"Why not?"

"Because it hurts everyone else."

Liberty smiled.

"That is responsibility."

A little farther down the road, they saw a young fox helping an elderly turtle carry groceries.

"Why is he helping?" asked Ruby.

"Because good citizens understand that freedom allows us to help one another."

The animals smiled.

Later, they climbed Freedom Mountain.

From the summit, they could see all of Woodland Valley.

The farms.

The schools.

The churches.

The homes.

The parks.

The businesses.

The people.

Everything seemed peaceful.

"Do you know why?" asked Liberty.

The animals shook their heads.

"Because most people choose responsibility."

"They obey the law."

"They respect others."

"They work hard."

"They help their neighbors."

"They appreciate their freedoms."

Ruby sat quietly.

For the first time, she understood.

Freedom was not just about rights.

It was also about choices.

Good choices.

Responsible choices.

Choices that helped everyone.

As the sun began setting, Liberty gathered the young animals together.

"What did you learn today?"

Samuel smiled.

"Freedom is a gift."

Olivia nodded.

"Responsibility protects freedom."

Benny added.

"Good citizens do their part."

Finally, Ruby stood tall.

"I learned that freedom and responsibility belong together."

Liberty smiled proudly.

"Exactly."

That evening, Ruby watched the American flag gently waving in the breeze.

She thought about all the freedoms she enjoyed.

The freedom to learn.

The freedom to worship.

The freedom to speak.

The freedom to dream.

Then she thought about her responsibilities.

Being kind.

Being honest.

Helping others.

Doing what is right.

And for the first time, she truly understood what it meant to be a good citizen.

Moral of the Story Poem:

Freedom is a precious gift.
Helping dreams and hopes to lift.
But freedom grows when people care,
And treat each other kind and fair.

Responsibility lights the way,
Helping freedom last each day.
When rights and duties work as one,
Great things can truly be done.

Discussion Questions:

1.     What is freedom?

2.     Why does freedom need responsibility?

3.     What responsibilities come with freedom of speech?

4.     How can children use their freedoms wisely?

5.     Why is it important to respect others?

6.     What are some examples of responsible citizenship?

7.     How can you help protect freedom in your home, school, and community?

Freddie Fox Learns Why Character Matters - A Children's Story

 

Freddie Fox Learns Why Character Matters

Moral of the Story:

Character is the foundation upon which great lives are built. While talents, abilities, and opportunities are important, character determines how a person uses them. Good character includes honesty, integrity, responsibility, respect, kindness, courage, self-discipline, and doing what is right even when no one is watching. America was founded upon principles that depend upon citizens having strong character. A nation can have great wealth, powerful buildings, and advanced technology, but without good character, it cannot remain strong for long. Every day we make choices that shape who we become. Small acts of honesty, kindness, and responsibility may seem insignificant, but over time they build a life others can trust and respect. Character is not something we are born with. It is something we develop through our choices and actions. When we choose good character, we help strengthen our families, communities, and nation.

Freddie Fox had a problem.

Actually, he had several problems.

Not big problems.

Little problems.

The kind that seemed harmless.

At least at first.

One morning, Freddie was racing through Woodland Valley when he spotted a shiny red apple lying beneath a tree.

It looked delicious.

He picked it up.

Just as he was about to take a bite, he noticed a small sign nearby.

Farmer Brown's Apple Orchard

Freddie frowned.

"No one is around."

He looked left.

He looked right.

No one was watching.

Or so he thought.

High above, Liberty Eagle sat quietly on a branch.

Later that day, Freddie found a shortcut through a flower garden.

A sign clearly said:

Please Stay On The Path

"No one will notice," Freddie thought.

So he cut across the flowers.

Several flowers bent beneath his paws.

Again, Liberty Eagle watched from a distance.

That evening, Liberty invited Freddie to walk with her.

"How was your day?" she asked.

"Great."

"Did you make any choices today?"

Freddie smiled.

"Lots."

"Were they good choices?"

Freddie hesitated.

"Mostly."

Liberty nodded.

"Let me ask you a question."

"What is character?"

Freddie shrugged.

"I don't know."

Liberty led him to a beautiful pond.

The water was perfectly still.

"What do you see?" she asked.

"My reflection."

"Character is a lot like that reflection."

Freddie looked puzzled.

"How?"

"It shows who you really are."

"Not who others think you are."

"Who are you, actually?"

The eagle sat beside him.

"Character is what you do when nobody is watching."

Freddie immediately thought about the apple.

And the flower garden.

His ears drooped slightly.

Liberty continued.

"Imagine two houses."

"One is built on solid stone."

"The other is built on soft sand."

"What happens during a storm?"

"The house on sand falls down."

"Exactly."

"Character is the stone foundation."

"It helps people stay strong when life becomes difficult."

The next day, Liberty introduced Freddie to several animals.

First, they met Honest Henry Horse.

Everyone trusted Henry.

Why?

Because he always told the truth.

Then they met Responsible Rachel Rabbit.

Everyone could count on Rachel.

Why?

Because she always followed through on her promises.

Then they met Courageous Caleb Bear.

He stood up for others when they needed help.

The more Freddie listened, the more he realized something.

Character mattered.

A lot.

Later that afternoon, Freddie returned to Farmer Brown's orchard.

He knocked on the farmer's door.

Farmer Brown answered.

"Can I help you?"

Freddie swallowed hard.

"Yesterday I almost took one of your apples without permission."

The farmer smiled.

"But you didn't."

"No."

"I wanted to."

"But I knew it was wrong."

Farmer Brown nodded.

"That took honesty."

Next, Freddie returned to the flower garden.

He carefully helped repair the damaged flowers.

Several friends joined him.

By sunset, the garden looked beautiful again.

That evening, Liberty asked him another question.

"What have you learned?"

Freddie smiled.

"I learned that character matters more than people realize."

"How so?"

"Because character determines our choices."

"And our choices determine who we become."

Liberty nodded proudly.

"Exactly."

As the sun disappeared behind Freedom Mountain, Freddie looked across Woodland Valley.

He thought about honesty.

Responsibility.

Kindness.

Respect.

Courage.

Integrity.

These were not merely words.

They were building blocks.

Building blocks that created strong people.

Strong families.

Strong communities.

And strong nations.

From that day forward, Freddie worked hard to build good character.

One choice at a time.

One day at a time.

And each day, he became a little stronger than the day before.

Moral of the Story Poem:

Character grows from choices made,

In sunlight bright or deepest shade.

Be honest, kind, and always true,

And good things will come back to you.

Respect and courage light the way,

Helping you grow every day.

Strong character helps people see,

The very best that you can be.

Discussion Questions:

1.     What is character?

2.     Why did Liberty say character is what you do when nobody is watching?

3.     What are some examples of good character?

4.     Why is honesty important?

5.     What does integrity mean?

6.     How do small choices affect our character?

7.     What character traits would you like to strengthen in your own life?

 

Patrick the Patriot Eagle Loves America - A Children's Story

 

Patrick the Patriot Eagle Loves America

Moral of the Story:

Being a patriot means loving your country and appreciating the freedoms and opportunities you have been given. A true patriot respects the laws, treats others with kindness, works hard, tells the truth, and helps make their community a better place. Patriots understand that freedom is precious and should never be taken for granted because many brave men and women sacrificed to protect it. The freedoms of speech, religion, assembly, and opportunity allow people to live, worship, learn, and dream freely. America was founded upon principles that recognize our rights come from God and that every person has value and dignity. Patriotism is not about being better than others. It is about being grateful, responsible, respectful, and committed to preserving liberty for future generations. When we honor God, respect others, and cherish our freedoms, we help keep the American dream alive.

High atop Freedom Mountain lived a magnificent bald eagle named Patrick.

Patrick was known throughout Woodland Valley as "Patrick the Patriot Eagle."

He loved America.

He loved freedom.

He loved learning about the history of the nation.

Most of all, he loved teaching young animals about what it meant to be a good citizen.

One bright summer morning, Patrick invited several young friends to join him atop Freedom Mountain.

There was Benny Bear.

Ruby Rabbit.

Daisy Deer.

Sammy Squirrel.

Oliver Owl.

And Freddie Fox.

As they reached the summit, they gasped.

An enormous American flag waved proudly in the gentle breeze.

Below them stretched beautiful forests, rivers, farms, towns, churches, schools, and homes.

"It is beautiful," whispered Ruby Rabbit.

Patrick smiled.

"Yes, it is."

"But today I want to teach you something even more beautiful than the land itself."

The animals looked puzzled.

"What could be more beautiful than all of this?" asked Benny.

Patrick pointed toward the flag.

"The freedoms represented by that flag."

What Is a Patriot?

Freddie raised his paw.

"What exactly is a patriot?"

Patrick nodded.

"A patriot is someone who loves their country and wants to help it remain strong, free, and good."

"Does that mean you have to be famous?" asked Daisy.

"No."

"Do you have to be rich?" asked Sammy.

"No."

"Do you have to be a soldier?" asked Benny.

"No."

Patrick smiled.

"A patriot can be anyone."

"A teacher."

"A farmer."

"A firefighter."

"A parent."

"A student."

"A child."

Anyone who loves their country and strives to do what is right can be a patriot.

Freedom Is Precious

Patrick pointed toward the valley.

"Many people throughout history have lived without freedom."

The young animals listened carefully.

"Some could not speak their minds."

"Some could not worship God freely."

"Some could not choose their leaders."

"Some could not pursue their dreams."

The animals looked surprised.

"They could not?" asked Ruby.

"No."

"That is why freedom is precious."

Freedom of Speech

Patrick continued.

"In America, people have the freedom to express their ideas."

"They may disagree."

"They may have different opinions."

"But they are allowed to speak."

Freddie smiled.

"I ask lots of questions."

Patrick laughed.

"That freedom allows you to do exactly that."

Freedom of Religion

Patrick pointed toward a small church in the valley.

"People are free to worship God according to their beliefs."

"No government official tells them how they must pray."

"No government official tells them whether they can believe in God."

The young animals nodded.

Patrick continued.

"Many of America's founders believed our rights ultimately come from God."

Freedom to Dream

Patrick spread his wings.

"Every child should have the opportunity to become the person they were created to be."

"A doctor."

"A teacher."

"A scientist."

"A business owner."

"A writer."

"A farmer."

"A pilot."

"A parent."

The possibilities were endless.

Freedom Requires Responsibility

Patrick became serious.

"Freedom is not a license to do whatever we want."

The animals listened closely.

"Freedom works best when people are responsible."

"What does that mean?" asked Benny.

"It means obeying the law."

"It means respecting others."

"It means telling the truth."

"It means keeping your promises."

"It means working hard."

"It means helping your neighbors."

"It means treating others fairly."

Respecting the Laws

"Why should we obey the laws?" asked Daisy.

Patrick smiled.

"Because laws help keep people safe and protect freedom."

"When good laws are respected, communities thrive."

"When people ignore the law, chaos follows."

The young animals nodded thoughtfully.

Gratitude

Patrick pointed toward the flag again.

"Do you know why we should never take America for granted?"

The animals shook their heads.

"Because countless men and women sacrificed to preserve these freedoms."

"They served."

"They worked."

"They struggled."

"They built schools."

"They built churches."

"They built businesses."

"They built communities."

"They passed freedom to the next generation."

Proud to Be Americans

The wind gently fluttered the great flag above them.

Patrick looked at each young animal.

"Being proud to be an American does not mean believing we are perfect."

"It means appreciating what we have."

"It means working to make things better."

"It means protecting freedom."

"It means helping others."

"It means remembering where our blessings come from."

America's Foundation

Patrick placed a wing over his heart.

"The founders believed our rights come from God."

"They believed every person has value."

"They believed liberty was a gift worth protecting."

"They believed future generations must be taught these truths."

The young animals stood quietly.

For a moment, nobody spoke.

They looked at the flag.

They looked at the valley.

They thought about freedom.

They thought about responsibility.

They thought about gratitude.

Finally Benny smiled.

"I think I understand."

"What do you understand?" asked Patrick.

Benny stood tall.

"A patriot loves their country."

"They obey the law."

"They respect others."

"They protect freedom."

"They thank God for their blessings."

"And they work to leave the country better than they found it."

Patrick's eyes sparkled.

"Exactly."

As the sun began to set over Woodland Valley, the young animals started their journey home.

They felt grateful.

They felt responsible.

They felt hopeful.

And for the first time, they truly understood what it meant to be a patriot.

Moral of the Story Poem:

Freedom is a precious gift,
Helping dreams and hopes to lift.
Respect the laws and do what's right,
Stand for truth with all your might.

Be grateful for the life you live,
And all the blessings freedom gives.
Love your country, serve with heart,
And always do your faithful part.

Discussion Questions:

1.     What does it mean to be a patriot?

2.     Why is freedom something we should never take for granted?

3.     What are some freedoms Americans enjoy every day?

4.     How can children show respect for their country and community?

5.     What responsibilities come with freedom?

6.     Why did Patrick say that freedom works best when people are responsible?

7.     How can you help keep the American dream alive in your own community?

 

 

CELEBRATING AMERICA'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY - From the book, America the Beautiful

CELEBRATING AMERICA'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY

1776 • 2026

A Quarter Millennium of Freedom, Faith, Opportunity, Courage, Innovation, and Hope

For 250 remarkable years, the United States of America has stood as a beacon of liberty, opportunity, and hope for people around the world.

From thirteen determined colonies to fifty united states, America's story has been shaped by generations of men and women who believed in freedom, embraced responsibility, worked hard, kept faith, and dared to dream of a brighter future.

The story of America is a story of courage in difficult times, perseverance through challenges, gratitude for blessings, and an unwavering belief that tomorrow can be better than today.

This book was created to celebrate that extraordinary journey and to help a new generation understand the values, principles, and ideals that have guided our nation for two and a half centuries.

As we commemorate America's 250th Birthday, may we honor the sacrifices of those who came before us, cherish the freedoms we enjoy today, and work together to build an even brighter future for generations yet to come.

Happy 250th Birthday, America.

1776 • 2026

250 Years of Freedom, Opportunity, Character, and Hope

 

A SPECIAL MESSAGE TO AMERICA'S CHILDREN - From the book, America the Beautiful

A SPECIAL MESSAGE TO AMERICA'S CHILDREN

Dear Children,

This message is especially for you.

By the time you finish reading this book, I hope you will understand something very important.

You matter.

You matter to your family.

You matter to your friends.

You matter to your community.

And you matter to America.

Sometimes children believe they are too young to make a difference.

That simply is not true.

Every great adult was once a child.

Every teacher was once a student.

Every doctor was once a little boy or girl.

Every firefighter, police officer, inventor, scientist, soldier, pastor, business owner, president, and parent was once exactly where you are today.

The future begins with children.

One day you will grow up and make decisions that shape the world around you.

You will choose how to treat others.

You will choose whether to be honest.

You will choose whether to work hard.

You will choose whether to help people in need.

You will choose whether to stand up for what is right.

Those choices matter.

The good news is that you do not have to wait until you are grown up to start making a difference.

You can begin today.

You can be kind to a classmate.

You can help a neighbor.

You can listen to your parents.

You can work hard in school.

You can tell the truth.

You can show respect.

You can encourage someone who is sad.

You can be a good friend.

You can choose gratitude instead of complaining.

You can choose courage instead of fear.

You can choose responsibility instead of excuses.

Every one of those choices helps build character.

Character is one of the most important things you will ever develop.

People may forget what toys you had.

They may forget what clothes you wore.

They may forget what games you played.

But they will remember how you treated them.

They will remember whether they could trust you.

They will remember whether you were kind.

They will remember whether you were honest.

Good character follows you throughout your life.

As you grow older, never stop learning.

Read books.

Ask questions.

Explore new ideas.

Learn about history.

Learn about your country.

Learn about the people who came before you.

The more you learn, the more opportunities you will have to make wise decisions.

Always remember that freedom is a gift.

Millions of people throughout history have lived without the freedoms many Americans enjoy today.

Freedom allows you to learn.

Freedom allows you to dream.

Freedom allows you to worship.

Freedom allows you to speak.

Freedom allows you to become the person God created you to be.

Freedom should never be taken for granted.

At the same time, freedom comes with responsibility.

Good citizens respect others.

Good citizens obey the law.

Good citizens help their communities.

Good citizens understand that rights and responsibilities belong together.

One day, America will belong to your generation.

You will become the teachers.

The leaders.

The parents.

The workers.

The inventors.

The volunteers.

The citizens who shape the future.

My hope is that when that day comes, you will remember the lessons in this book.

Love freedom.

Respect others.

Work hard.

Tell the truth.

Help people.

Be grateful.

Show courage.

Serve your community.

And never stop believing that one person can make a difference.

Because one person can.

That person might be you.

May God bless you.

May God bless your family.

And may God bless the United States of America.

Your friend,

Bill Conley