Celebrating the life of the most decorated Marine Aviator in history

10 years ago, as a columnist for the Southeast Missourian, I wrote that " America, and what it means to be an American, is far less an empire of territory than it is an empire of the mind."

On July 4, Americans will celebrate the foundation of our liberties and freedoms. As a nation at war, we reflect on the sacrifice of our heroes from generations ago and their spirit of patriotism which still embodies the courage of soldiers today.

Lt. Governor Peter Kinder, the state's Official Senior Advocate, lauded AmerenUE today for their "Clean Slate" initiative, a program to help low-income senior citizens pay off their past due electric bills.

"During these hot summer days, it is refreshing to see a utility company lend a helping hand to Missouri seniors," Lt. Governor Kinder said. "Ameren deserves to be commended for their commitment to the communities they serve, and for this effort to help ease the burden on low-income Missourians."

On Saturday, I joined the St. Louis chapter of the NAACP-an organization celebrating its 100th year-to honor more than 100 local citizens who have made a difference in the community. From my speech:

Today marks the 141 st observance of Memorial Day in these United States of
America. This national day of remembrance was first held in 1868 when
veterans of the Civil War designated one day in May to honor "the memory
of the heroic dead."

It was a Big Moment: when I heard, at 6 a.m. last Sunday, that Jack Kemp had died. To get only 73 years out of such a lion, such a heart, such a first-class temperament, such a happy warrior, seems somehow unfair. Of course, it isn't left to us mere mortals to charge God with cheating us.

from the Maneater:

GOP should expand its tent

Everybody would be welcome to this party.

By

Marcus Bowen

Published May 4, 2009