Memorial Day brings meaningful recollections. We pause to acknowledge the Revolutionary militiamen who stood fast in volleys of crude musket balls; to today’s warriors who could meet their end by a roadside bomb.

Thank you to all service persons in my family and yours.

I’m also thinking of my mentor, my father. He’s gone now, but I draw upon his wisdom, integrity and tenacity every day. He was too old to fight in World War II, but he, my mother and my grandmother worked in the war effort for Boeing.

Having lived through the Depression, Dad taught conservative values, resourcefulness and self-reliance. He and my mother raised three children on commissions he made selling school busses and fire engines.

It was not ‘Easy Street.’ Our idea of a motorhome was an old school bus with a few seats removed to make room for an ice chest, a sofa and a couple army surplus cots.

Dad was always diplomatic; he never stooped to discredit his competitors. He had plenty of positive things to say about his product. He was an avid reader and supported Hillsdale College. I receive their Imprimus newsletter thanks to his contributions.

Dad raised us to be good citizens and serve our community. He followed Rotary Club’s simple four-way test:

Is it the truth?

Is it fair to all concerned?

Will it build goodwill and better friendships?

Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

It’s my honor to serve as your Senator. I’ve enjoyed meeting you during my campaign, and it’s a real privilege to be part of our political process.

As you mark your ballot, remember that our every right, liberty and breath of freedom is owed to brave men and women who sacrificed their lives for our country.