Where The Millers Roam: The Real American Idols

For those who live under a rock, American Idol 2012 ended this week. America chose its idol - a 21-year old young man who is super talented and I hope does well with his gift of playing and singing.

Honestly, all these young people who were on American Idol didn’t have it too hard. They were allowed to do something they loved, stay in a mansion, meet celebrities, and I’m sure much more. The only downfall is you may not win the multi-million dollar contract in the end.

It’s interesting what we as Americans consider an idol.

Let me tell you about a few real American Idols. They are the men and women who chose to do something that isn’t always popular. It isn’t always fun. There’s not a lot of money it and certainly no mansions. They chose to do something selfless. They chose to do something that most of us wouldn’t want to do. They chose to leave their families to fight for a country they love, never knowing what the outcome might be.

I have walked through the cemeteries at West Point and Arlington and I’ve seen the graves of the 21 year old American Idols.

They are more than just names written in stone. They are sons and daughters. Husbands and wives. Mommies and daddies. Mentors. Best friends. Battle buddies. Names we should never forget.

Today we honor them and the families who love them.

It’s been the Millers' great honor to know some of these American Idols personally.

MAJ Bill Hecker

CPT Christopher Petty

CPT Jason Blake

CPT Sam Luke

SFC Stephen White

SGT Johnny Peralez

PVT Robbie Mariano

So today, take a moment and remember these men and so many others who have given their all.