U.S. Soldier Recounts Experience in Nazi Work Camp

Happy Veterans Day.

I am so thankful for the men and women who have defended this country and its ideals in uniform around the world. The life of a soldier is hard for me to imagine. They willingly put themselves in great danger for the sake of us who stay comfortably at home (often unaware), not to mention the months and years spent away from their spouses, children and loved ones, putting their life on hold indefinitely. Their families as well endure months of difficulty, loneliness, and fear. With honor and respect, they submit to those in authority even through questions and disagreements. Perhaps most impressive, they do all this for the sake of conflicts that are often far removed from American soil. They are able to connect their own security and life with that of those on the other side of the world.

I don't believe we can properly celebrate Veterans Day, however, without being sobered by the horrible realities of war. What is it that they face? Who exactly are they up against? What are the particulars of the sacrifice they make and why do they make it?

CNN posted a news article about Anthony Acevedo, a WWII veteran who spent months in a Nazi work camp, an experience he kept silent for decades at the behest of the U.S. Army. I am glad he broke the silence.

Read what he endured and thank God that the valiant efforts of American and Allied soldiers prevailed over the wickedness of Adolf Hitler's regime.