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Air Force general speaks at First Assembly of God

  • Published
  • By Robert Barron, Staff Writer
  • Enid News and Eagle
ENID --  "The wars our nation fought have come at a great price," said Air Force Gen. Michael Miller.

Miller spoke at First Assembly of God Church May 30 as the congregation honored military service members and veterans. Miller called Memorial Day a day to reflect on those who have served their nation and the ones who died in that service. He gave a brief description of Memorial Day and showed a video that depicted the sacrifice members of the military forces make for their country and their families.

The son of a minister, Miller recalled the scriptural admonition "there is no greater love than to lay down one's life for his friends." He also mentioned biblical references to Christian heroes who performed mighty acts. Some lived and some died by terrible means, he said.

"Where does that measure of devotion come from that would cause a person to leave his home to sacrifice for his country?" he asked.

Miller said the nation does not forget those soldiers, sailors and airmen.

Gen. Miller is assistant surgeon general, strategic medical plans, programs and budget, and chief of the Medical Service Corps, Office of the Surgeon General, in Arlington, Va. His responsibilities include integrating, analyzing and defending defense health programs and medical elements of Air Force funding for future years in the defense program.

Miller emotionally recounted the winners of the Medal of Honor from Oklahoma, including Harold G. Kiner of Enid.

"Today has special meaning for Gold Star Parents of service members around the world," he said. Their sons and daughters are making the sacrifice to keep the nation free.

Prior to Miller's address the church presented plaques to the oldest Vance Air Force Base alumnus in the church and the oldest combat veteran.

Church members opened the service singing patriotic hymns and Miller showed videos depicting sacrifices made by members of the U.S. military, including the Medical Corps, during his address. NOTE: This article appeared in the Enid (Okla.) News and Eagle.