the passing of a true hero

A few years ago I watched the HBO mini-series "Band of Brothers" for the first time. I didn't have HBO when it first aired but actually watched the first episode on an airplane while on my way to Europe. I became compelled to watch the entire ten hour series and purchased it. I've since watched it several times and I admit it's my favorite movie, television series, or anything else that I've ever had the opportunity to view.
Its a true story written by Stephen Ambrose about Easy company and their jump into history on D-day of world war II. It then follows them through their battles and exploits until the taking of Eagles Nest in Bavarian Germany at the end of the war. Watching this you become familiar with the men who helped preserve our freedom and one man really stands out in the show. Major Richard Winters, who should have received the congressional medal of honor for his service and bravery. He was everything I would want my sons to emulate in a role model.
He passed away on January 2nd, the same day my article in the Deseret News was published. I wish I'd only had the opportunity to meet Major Winters sometime during his life.
Dick Winters is just one of thousands. He just happens to be the one that I learned something about. My own father served in both the Pacific and Atlantic theaters of World War II and I'm just as proud of him. Thank you, to an entire generation of those who fought for our freedom and those who continue to fight.