Giving Thanks to God for Veterans

By Mathew A. Pinson, Georgia United Methodist Foundation President and CEO

I am mindful that Veterans Day is Friday, November 11. Veterans Day remains important to me, and I always pause in gratitude for the women and men who serve. Three important people always come to mind on this day, and I am sharing their photos with you.

The first photo (right) is of my late grandfather, Colonel (RET) William C. Pinson. He was an infantry officer during World War II, and served in the United States Army for 30 years.

The second photo (left) is of my uncle, Lieutenant Colonel (RET) Robert Pinson. He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point and served in the United States Army for 20 years. Like my grandfather, he was an infantry officer and retired shortly after the first Gulf War, where he served with distinction.

This final photo (top left) is of Major General James B. Jarrard. This is a special photo, as it captures the moment when he presented the flag to my grandmother at the funeral service for my grandfather. He is now a Lieutenant General and was recently named Deputy Commanding General, United States Army Pacific.

I give thanks to God for all of our veterans and pray for peace all over the world!