Remember the Messiest Kid Photo Contest and our hands-down winner, Oran? Well, he got his prize in the mail and his grandmother, Judy (of Tabletop Homestead) sent me this picture which I just had to share. Please ignore the dates on the pictures. Cameras are naughty critters. Oran is holding a bar of soap and a hand-knitted bath scrubby. Oran wants to be an Airborne Ranger when he grows up. I can’t think of a cooler goal for a young person to have. Oran: you rock, little man. Dream tall and live fully, outwardly, and honestly. And Oran, this one’s for you:
Recognizing that I volunteered as a Ranger, fully knowing the hazards of my chosen profession, I will always endeavor to uphold the prestige, honor and high esprit de corps of my Ranger Regiment.
Acknowledging the fact that a Ranger is a more elite soldier who arrives at the cutting edge of battle by land, sea or air, I accept the fact that as a Ranger my country expects me to move further, faster and fight harder than any other soldier.
Never shall I fail my comrades. I will always keep myself mentally alert, physically strong and morally straight; I will shoulder more than my share of the task whatever it may be, one hundred percent and then some.
Gallantly will I show the world that I am a specially selected and well-trained soldier. My courtesy to superior officers, neatness of dress and care of equipment shall set the example for others to follow.
Energetically will I meet the enemies of my country. I shall defeat them on the field of battle for I am better trained and will fight with all my might. Surrender is not a Ranger word. I will never leave a fallen comrade to fall into the hands of the enemy, and under no circumstances will I ever embarrass my country.
Readily will I display the intestinal fortitude required to fight on to the Ranger objective and complete the mission, though I be the lone survivor.
Rangers lead the way!
Please read A Father Prayer by General Douglas MacArthur. Who is the Ranger in your life? Who do you pray that prayer for? Who is your hero?
