Freedom, Service & a Place We Call Home
By Tina M. Smith
Originally published in The Front Porch Magazine, Fall–Winter 2026–2027, page 51.
Serving in the military gave me the opportunity to see a lot of the world and to live in different countries. It opened my eyes to the world with an appreciation of diversity, but also deepened my appreciation and connection to the country I call home. Honestly, I would never choose to live anywhere but here. I am so blessed to have been born in this country where opportunity abounds for those with the tenacity and work ethic to pursue their dreams and happiness. Go to any other country and you will see why many people flock to our borders for the chance at the American dream. Our politics may be divisive and polarizing at times, but we can agree to disagree and not fear being thrown in prison for our protected speech. If you have not read the Bill of Rights lately, it’s worth a look to familiarize yourself and understand those first 10 amendments to our Constitution.
Our country’s forefathers, the 56 brave Patriots who signed the US Declaration of Independence in 1776, put everything on the line. They pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor to establish this nation. Many signers died during the Revolutionary War, and others were captured and imprisoned, as were their wives and children. That desire for liberty, opportunity and self-governance was worth the risk of charges of treason, imprisonment, and even death. We owe them a debt and we owe a thank you to the young people who currently serve in the armed forces to protect these fundamental rights.
Roughly two million active and reserve troops stand guard at the gates today, a mere 0.6% of our population. Our freedom has always depended on ordinary Americans from ordinary communities answering the call during extraordinary circumstances. Burleson County has certainly answered that call and been part of this country’s patriotic story, for which we can be proud.
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While I’m a transplanted veteran who hails from Missouri, my husband calls Caldwell home (class of ’84). Not only is the county beautiful, the cultural heritage and community spirit are appealing to families and retirees.
I was surprised to learn a bit of military history and family ancestry linked to Burleson County. My husband’s uncle was a Navy frogman in WW2 and spent time aboard the USS Burleson. The USS Burleson, an Aprilia-class attack transport vessel, was commissioned on 8 Nov 1944. Thus far, she is the only US Navy ship to be named for Burleson County, Texas. She spent most of her duty in the Pacific, receiving one battle star for taking part in the assault and occupation of Okinawa. After the war ended in August 1945, she was repurposed as an animal transport for nuclear testing duty at Bikini Atoll, and finally retained as a reserve training vessel until being scrapped in 1968. I’m sure this is not the only hidden gem of history that may be unknown to some community members.
I encourage you to learn more about Burleson County. Our story is still being written. With a shared commitment to service, courage, compassion, and conviction, we can ensure our best chapters are yet to come.
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