It’s that time of year again when we wish America a very Happy Birthday and celebrate our independence. It looks like we may not have any fireworks in Fort Myers due to budget constraints but let’s have a cookout anyway and give thanks for living in this great country.

One of the things I will be thinking about this 4^th of July, as I do every year, is the sacrifice made by so many veterans to ensure that the United States of America remains free. I’ve told readers in the past how much I loved and admired my own father who served in the Army as an Interpreter. My Dad was such an honorable man and he served his adopted country and loved it like there was no better place on earth. I feel the same way.

Senior Life Magazine is so proud to produce a Veteran’s Tribute every 4^th of July. I confess it’s my favorite issue. It gives us an opportunity to say a sincere thank you to all who have served their country. We have certainly had a busy month in the office preparing for this issue. After all…it’s for you, and there’s nothing more important. Judith Gannon Bircher, Community Affairs Editor, has been traveling all over Lee and Collier County talking with veterans. This is a labor of love for Judy. She found some people who graciously shared their military experiences with her and I just know you are going to enjoy reading about Albina Thomson, one of the nurses who helped save lives on the beaches in Normandy, Sam Nogaro who sailed with the Merchant Marines, and Buddy Cadenas, one of my favorite people in the world who was a career Naval Officer.

We also have a guest columnist in this issue, SW FL Infantryman Dick Williams shares his diary with us as he returns to Europe for the 65^th Anniversary of V E Day. I know you will join me in celebrating the accomplishments of these great veterans and their contributions to liberty in the USA and the liberation of neighboring countries.

You’ll also read about another highly decorated and brave veteran who served on Luzon. As usual, Judy threw in a little twist on this one. Enjoy reading.

 Bravo-Zulu.