This year, in an attempt to focus efforts, I have decided to not do the Veteran's Day GAW. Whatever you have saved, send to Blade HQ for their benefit. Here is the link (no commission to me--this all goes to vets).

Today, the only government institution that consistently has strong polling numbers is the US military. That is well-deserved. In addition to their incredible effectiveness at defending us and forming incredible young men and women, they are the institution that makes our freedoms possible. Our ability to defend our national integrity is a fountain from which all other rights spring. If you enjoy your ability to express yourself, to defend yourself, to demand that courts treat you fairly and give you a chance to be heard, to petition government on issues important to you, and to read whatever news source you want, it is because of our military. They shield us from tyrants, theocracies, and hegemonies that would undercut this unique American experiment.

This moment in time, when we as a country are so vocal about our differences, its worth remembering that those differences are allowed to flourish, in large part, because our military protects us from forces and government systems that would not be so tolerant of differences.

Thank you for your support.

I have a different sort of giveaway planned for the holidays.