Submitted by Leona Baker, The Historical Society of Salisbury Township 

In the United States, Veterans Day, which is observed in November, has been set aside to remember those who have bravely served in our armed forces to defend the privileges guaranteed by our Constitution. But those serving in war zones are on the brink every day. From those who took up arms against unfair tariffs in 1776 to brave citizens protesting slavery in the 1860s, Americans have answered the call to arms. In the 20th century, we sent many to defended our foreign friends as they defend democracy throughout the world.    

No matter the war, no matter the distance from home, those who wait for news about their kin must live with the uncertainty of what any day will bring. These days, thanks to digital expertise, communications are much more timely than in the Revolutionary times, Civil War times or any other wartime. Families can keep in touch one-on-one across thousands of miles. Whether you have a family member in the service or not, every mother, sister, brother or dad will connect with this tale of "A Good Day" provided from a friend of the Historical Society of Salisbury Township, Karel Henneberger.

"Hi, Dad." Brad peers at the screen in front of him, his eyes squinting in the bright desert light. "Yesterday was a good day." 

We both smile. In his world, a good day is one where nobody got hurt or killed.

"We helped some kids rebuild a school. It was only a single room about the size of my bedroom at home. It was amazing. Those kids were so excited to have a school to go back to." A big grin then. Brad never was one to be excited about going to school.

I nod. "Sounds like you're doing some good over there," I say, trying not to think of the bad days he's had and those he'll likely have in the future.

"Yeah. We are. I just wish we weren't needed here at all." He looks away to one side. "Gotta go, Dad. We're moving out."

Our hands touch together on our screens, then Brad reaches to shut down his computer, looking over his shoulder at a couple of soldiers waving at him. 

My screen is blank. He had already left me before his fingers clicked on the close button. His mind was back with his buddies heading into some dangerous mission intended to keep the villages nearby safe from the enemy. 

I shut my eyes, draw in a big breath and hold it as if that will keep my son and his friends safe. My breath staggers out again as I throw up a prayer to any god that happens to be listening. "Give him another good day," I whisper.

Yesterday was a good day. But I know the odds are against such a good day happening again soon. One of these days, Brad may really leave me alone in this world. I feel blessed to have him in my life, and I dearly wish and pray that he'll remain so, but this world is so full of what isn't good. We have to hold tight to any good day that comes along. 

I blink and blink again. I'm not crying. I can't because Brad and all those other sons and daughters are doing their best to make more good days possible.