The State is the altar of political freedom and like the religious altar it is maintained for the purpose of human sacrifice.

Freedom is fragile and must be protected. To sacrifice it even as a temporary measure is to betray it.

Watching President Obama apologize last week for America's arrogance - before a French audience that owes its freedom to the sacrifices of Americans - helped convince me that he has a deep-seated antipathy toward American values and traditions.

A nation which makes the final sacrifice for life and freedom does not get beaten.

That freedom can never be attained by a nation without suffering and sacrifice has been amply borne out by the recent tragic happenings in this subcontinent.

Freedom is a right ultimately defended by the sacrifice of America's servicemen and women.

Freedom does not come without a price. We may sometimes take for granted the many liberties we enjoy in America but they have all been earned through the ultimate sacrifice paid by so many of the members of our armed forces.

History has taught us over and over again that freedom is not free. When push comes to shove the ultimate protectors of freedom and liberty are the brave men and women in our armed forces. Throughout our history they've answered the call in bravery and sacrifice.

When service members are discharged we should express our gratitude for their profound personal sacrifice not hand them a bill for their hospital food.

You know rural Americans are a special people. Their labor puts food on our table and fuel in our gas tanks. Their service in our military sets a powerful example of leadership honor and sacrifice. Their spirit of community inspires us all.