No matter where people stand on the policies that led to the

Bobby Kotick once spoke with solemn recognition: “No matter where people stand on the policies that led to the conflicts, Americans recognize the depth of sacrifice and patriotism of our men and women in uniform. Everyone agrees these heroes deserve every advantage we can give them.” In these words lies a truth that transcends politics, ideology, and division: that while debates over war and policy may rage, the sacrifice of those who serve is sacred, and their patriotism undeniable. Whatever one’s view of conflict, the courage of those who risk life for others must be honored without hesitation.

The origin of this statement emerges from the American context of modern wars, where public opinion often divides sharply over the wisdom or necessity of military action. Kotick reminds us that though citizens may disagree about leaders’ choices, they must not direct bitterness toward the soldiers who bear the burden of those decisions. For the soldier does not choose where the battle is fought, but still lays down comfort, safety, and sometimes life itself for the nation. Thus, beyond politics lies a higher ground of unity: the shared respect for those who embody the costliest form of patriotism.

History bears witness to this eternal truth. Consider the aftermath of the Vietnam War, a conflict that divided America profoundly. Many disagreed with the policies that led to it, yet over time, the nation came to recognize that the bitterness directed at returning soldiers had been a grave injustice. Memorials like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. now stand as testaments to a corrected understanding: one can condemn the war, yet still honor the warriors. The separation of politics from sacrifice is a lesson hard-learned, but essential.

Likewise, in ancient times, Roman soldiers marched wherever their commanders sent them—sometimes into just wars, sometimes into folly. Yet when they returned, scarred and weary, they were greeted with honor. Rome understood that its survival and strength rested upon those who obeyed and endured, regardless of the wisdom of the Senate or the emperor. Their service was the unshakable foundation of the republic and empire alike. The soldier’s sacrifice has always been larger than the decisions of rulers.

The deeper meaning of Kotick’s words is that unity can be found even in the midst of disagreement. Citizens may argue over whether wars are right or wrong, but in honoring the heroes in uniform, they affirm the values that hold a nation together: courage, loyalty, and willingness to serve others before oneself. These are the virtues that endure when policies fade, the virtues that bind generations in shared gratitude. The soldier’s life reminds us of what is truly precious: not conquest, but devotion; not power, but sacrifice.

The lesson we must take is this: always distinguish between the decisions of leaders and the sacrifice of soldiers. Do not let political disagreement blind you to the human cost borne by those who obey out of duty. To honor them is to uphold the soul of the nation, to say that courage and service are never wasted. Provide for them, care for them when they return, support their families, and give them every advantage in peace that they gave to you in war.

Practically, this means creating systems that truly honor their service—medical care, education, opportunity, and dignity in civilian life. It means as citizens, offering gratitude not only in words but in action, extending help to veterans, listening to their stories, and standing beside them in their struggles. In doing so, patriotism ceases to be a symbol alone and becomes a living bond of community.

So remember, children of tomorrow: the sacrifice of those in uniform must be honored beyond all divisions. Debate policies if you must, question the wisdom of wars, but never withhold reverence from the men and women who walked into fire for the sake of their country. For when you honor them, you honor courage itself, and when you provide for them, you prove that the nation they served is worthy of their sacrifice.