Gilbert Gutknecht: “freedom is not free. We are born knowing that sooner or later one day we will be called upon to fulfill our part in…”

“freedom is not free. We are born knowing that sooner or later one day we will be called upon to fulfill our part in America's destiny. On September 11, this generation received our challenge. Throughout our Nation's history, every generation has had to ante up. Our time is now. As William Jennings Bryan said, ``Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved.'' We must, and we will, achieve this victory for the people of the United States and for all civilized, peace-loving people around the world. The blood and treasure of our Nation will be invested. The leadership, resources and unwavering courage of the United States are critical in this struggle. We will rise to the challenge. And, in the end, we will leave to future generations a safer planet. Let us remember those brave Americans in our Armed Forces. They take their places now in the long gray line that has never failed us. May God bless them and give them the courage to achieve a great victory and establish a lasting peace.”