Our men and women in the U.S. military are ready and willing at any time to defend our nation.
The former Soviet Union was sustained by lawlessness, deception and tyranny. My maternal grandparents had to flee from Russia during the cold winter of 1946. Not like so many others who fled in the midst of World War II, but in its aftermath to escape the established anti-Semitism of the Soviet empire. And thank G-d that they were blessed to settle here in the land of the free and the home of the brave.
They tell a story about Oscar, the world's best, most accomplished and talented tightrope walker. He lived in Paris. His show featured all types of stunts and tricks from 500 feet in the air. While supported only by a tight, strong, metallic rope, Oscar walked blindfolded in his final concluding act. People traveled from all around the world to witness and observe the spectacular act in which he would place someone in a wheelbarrow and walk backwards on the rope while blindfolded.
Mr. Henry Whitlaw, a well-to-do businessman from the United State's East Coast, heard so much about Oscar, but he was skeptical. Because he was fearful of flying, Henry was not able to travel to Paris. So he made a very generous offer to Oscar, who agreed to come to the USA to perform his act over Niagara Falls.
As Oscar began his show, the crowd of thousands felt the adrenalin rush. As soon as Oscar finished, and his volunteer made it down safely from the wheelbarrow, the crowd roared with applause. Without skipping a beat, Oscar walked over to Mr. Whitlaw and asked, "Do you now believe I can do it?"
"Believe? Mr. Whitlaw exclaimed. "Why, I just saw you do it with my very own eyes!
"Do you really believe?"
"Of course, Oscar, I am absolutely convinced!"
"Well, if that's the case, would you please hop into the wheelbarrow, I would like to do this act again … with you!"
Our country is filled with people who truly believe. We believe in America, and that law, truth and peace are genuine and authentic values. And then there are those who put their belief into action. They are on constant standby, ready and willing at any time, to take their seat in the wheelbarrow.
They are the men and women of our Armed Forces.
On this Veterans Day, I am honored—on behalf of all of us who love our country—to say, thank you! May G-d bless you and keep you safe, and may G-d bless the United States of America.
Shalom!