The Cost of Freedom

American Revolutionary War (1775-1783)

25,000 died in combat; 25,000 wounded

War of 1812 (1812-1815)

            15,000 died; 5,000 wounded

Mexican-American War (1846-1848)

            13,283 died; 4,152 wounded

The American Civil War

            214,938 died in combat, an estimated 400,000-500,000 died of other causes: wounds,

 infection, disease; total deaths approximately 750,000 (420 died each day)

World War I (1917-1918)

            320,518 dead and wounded

World War II (1941-1945)

            291,557 dead; 670,846 wounded

Korean War (1950-1953)

            33,686 died; 128,650 wounded; 4759 missing

Vietnam (1955-1975)

            47,424 died; 153,303 wounded; 2489 missing

 

Though statistics vary, we know tens of thousands have died so that we may enjoy our freedom today.  We owe them a debt of gratitude and respect for their service to our nation.  In honoring veterans, the VFW gives a red poppy to wear on Memorial Day.  It is an appropriate symbol, for the red poppy was the only plant that grew on the barren wastelands left after the battles of WWI. 

 

Red.  The color of blood, the color of sacrifice.  Thousands of men have died so that we can enjoy our freedom in this country.  But Another came into enemy territory and gave up His life so that all mankind everywhere and for all time can be free from sin and death.  His name is Jesus.  He is the creator of the red poppy that grows where nothing else can.  True freedom is a matter of choice.  May the Holy Spirit stir the seeds God planted within you so that you will seek Christ Jesus who can give you real life, abundant life in Him — life for all eternity.   May you be free, free, free indeed.