Courage

We live in a world that seems to spend a lot of time dwelling on negatives. The world situation, the economy, the moral decline of our people, trouble in our inner cities, immigration woes, trouble in the Middle East, the list seems endless.

This constant focus on problems, can lead one to a false impression of the country, and we...the people. It is easy to fall into the trap that one person or one group has caused a problem, or has all the answers. If there is anything I am sure of, it is this...every generation is confronted with problems and issues. The trick is to recognize this and move forward with confidence, to put our resolve and effort into solving the problems. We are a nation, and a people who have, time after time, proven our courage and determination to succeed.

It has been said that courage is not the absence of fear...but rather, the conscious decision to face danger, and move past it. Former Staff Sargent Ryan Pitts, said "Valor was everywhere that day and the real heroes are the nine men who made the ultimate sacrifice so the rest of us could come home,"Staff Sargent Pitts was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in the face of enemy fire. His bravery undoubtedly saved lives, his modesty and courage are an example of what is best in our country.

Courage has many faces. We may never be called upon to do that which Staff Sargent Pitt was called...but we can do no less than honor and valor require when it comes to facing big problems, and working together to solve them!

New Hampshire is very proud of Staff Sargent Pitts, and we thank him for his service!