The Last Full Measure

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13)

“It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they here gave THE LAST FULL MEASURE of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” (Abraham Lincoln, The Gettysburg Address, November 19, 1863)

Recently, I saw the movie “The Last Full Measure”. It is the stirring story of US Air Force Pararescue Jumper William H. Pitsenbarger. And the 34 year fight for the award he deserved. The prestigious Congressional Medal of Honor.

Airman Pitsenbarger’s heroic actions occurred on April 11, 1966 during the Battle of Xa Cam My in Vietnam. US Army infantrymen were on a search and destroy mission known as “Operation Abilene”. The battle became known as one of the bloodiest of the Vietnam War. The casualty rate was 80%.

Airman Pitsenbarger’s rescue helicopter was called in to evacuate wounded men in the midst of the raging battle. One of the wounded was the company medic.

When Airman Pitsenbarger saw this, he had himself lowered into the middle of the surrounded company so he could tend to the wounded. He saved over 60 men during this battle. Then, against orders, he stayed on the ground. He picked up a rifle and began to fight alongside men he did not know. He was killed in action.

His bravery and selfless sacrifice was an inspiration to the men around him. And it should be an inspiration to us all.

The “World’s Greatest Deliberative Body” (Description of the US Senate by President James Buchanan, 1867)

Standing in stark contrast to the bravery and sacrifice of Airman Pitsenbarger are the Republican members of the US Senate. In a cowardly display of fealty to President Donald Trump, they refused to put the interests of the nation above their own during the impeachment trial.

They fear their golden calf’s capability of threatening their seats of power if they publicly disagree with him. They do not have the courage to stand up in front of the nation in support of truth. Instead, they make excuses and think of new and imaginative ways to brush off the wrongdoing of Donald Trump.

If they shrink in fear of their dear leader, can you imagine what they would do if they were faced with a fire fight? They would cut and run at the first hint of any trouble.

“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)

They claim to believe in God, and His Son the Lord Jesus Christ. Yet they are not of good courage. And their actions show that they are afraid even though the Lord God goes with them.

Shame on you Republicans in the US Senate. You should know better.

The Steadfast Watchman