During war, the sense of gratitude is more profound than usual, or at least it should be.  The whole idea that "brave men are willing to do violence on our behalf so we can rest peacefully at night" requires, demands, the sincere gratitude of anyone who enjoys the freedoms they protect.   We have a country where freedom is the rule rather than the exception and highly skilled troops trained and willing to fight for that freedom, all volunteers no less.  This year that should at the top of everyones list of thinks to be thankful for.  We take for granted no society in the history of mankind has accomplished so much with so little damage.