“Those we love remain with us, for love itself lives on”
February is a time to celebrate eternal love. When a soldier sacrifices their life, they are doing it for the love of their country. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful and endures through every circumstance.
This Valentine’s Day let us honor our Fallen Heroes by spreading love.
Although fallen soldiers are deceased, their love and passion lives on within their surviving families. Cherished memories never fade and continue to be celebrated as children of the fallen strive forward.
“My dad’s sacrifice means I have a guardian angel for life. I have faced many challenges emotionally, physically, and mentally since my dad’s passing and every time I’ve felt an extra push or hand on my shoulder helping me through it all,” explained Jonathan Skau, Fallen Patriots surviving scholar.
It is with immense love that scholars are led and inspired, often, by their surviving moms. Over 97% of those killed in action are men, leaving mothers, who earn on average less than $50,000 per year, with the financial responsibilities of raising a family.
Raymond Edward O’Hare died while in Test Pilot School when a T-38A Talon training jet crashed. His wife was left to raise their three young children.
“Although growing up without my dad was very hard, I was blessed with an amazing mother and grandparents who cared for me and loved me endlessly,” explained O’Hare’s daughter, Elizabeth. “This has allowed me to succeed and to realize that although my dad isn’t here on earth, he is with me in spirit and is always watching over for me.”
This Valentine’s Day let us honor our Fallen Heroes by spreading love. Fallen Patriots keeps families of the fallen in our thoughts every day and we embrace February, “the month of love,” an opportunity to show our heartfelt appreciation for all those who have served our country and their surviving families.