It was the custom in ages past - although uncommon even then - for women to defend the home with arms. When husbands fighting to hold enemies at bay from village and fief fell in the lines, wives and elder daughters, in lieu of sons, would take up the fallen swords and shields. They toed the line shoulder to shoulder with the remaining men and joined in the defense of hearth and home and loved ones. Such women today, as then, deserve all the admiration and respect that would be offered any other soldier, plus some. Traditionally, mothers are the last and final wall of protection for their young. Today, those mothers who are so inclined have chosen to take advantage of the technology that allows them to take the battle to the enemy, and as far away from their homes as possible. God has blessed us with mothers who will willingly meet death, in protection of their young. All forms of honor and praise to such women. And, may God twice bless us, by seeing such moms return home safely.

Earl Jones © 19 March 2003