Another of America’s fine young souls was laid to rest today in this small town in east central Florida. This is the second son, the second medic, lost to Deltona families in less than a month. 27 year old Nicholas Rogers was a credit to his community before enlisting in the United States Army. He was a credit to his parents, and he is a credit to our country in his valiant service as one who saved lives and tended the wounded by choice. He leaves behind a wife, a young daughter, an unborn child, and a mother and father who loved and needed him very much. It is fair to say that he leaves behind a community that loved and respected him.

In addition to the many vehicles containing family and friends, there were several official vehicles from the police and fire departments in attendance. Some fifty-eight motorcycles, representing caring Patriot Riders from all over the state of Florida, were included in the funeral procession. The entire mission was run very efficiently, and each rider was honored to be on hand. Once again, a family spokesperson addressed each rider and expressed the family’s appreciation for our presence.

Nicholas, and those who serve as he did, is the reason we have the privilege to choose our own direction and select our own destiny. We start each morning with a decision on how we will spend our day. We choose where we want to live, who we want to work for, which vehicle we want to drive, when to take a shower, even the flavor of tooth paste we enjoy. Nicholas, the vanguard which has passed before him, and those who will follow, gave us these privileges and continue to preserve them. These must not pass in vain!

Another mission, another son, another image, and another voice added to the sound of Freedom’s Ring for the duration democracy on the face of the earth. We must never allow these images, nor these sounds, to fade from our sight and hearing.

May God bless our young defenders of democracy, their families, our Nation, and the preservation of Freedom in the world.