American history is replete with heroes. We have heard of some, and some we have not. That is part of the secret sauce of freedom. When each individual uses their talents and abilities to their maximum potential, ordinary individuals can achieve extraordinary things.
An example of this is a young barber from Cherokee, Iowa. During World War I, he decided to enlist in the Iowa National Guard. As fate would have it, his unit was called into action. This unit was attached to the 168th U.S. Infantry Regiment and a part of the 42nd Division. It just so happens that a young major named Douglas MacArthur called this the Rainbow Division, because it consisted of National Guard units from across the United States.
Late in July 1918, the 168th Infantry found itself in the Second Battle of the Marne, confronting a major German offensive. Its charge was to push the Germans back to prevent the capture of Paris. The 168th was taking heavy casualties under the German assault, yet the platoon commander needed to have a message delivered to another platoon.
This barber-turned-soldier did not hesitate and volunteered to carry the dispatch. Under heavy enemy fire, this private crossed the battlefield but tragically was cut down by enemy fire as he neared the neighboring platoon. Pvt. Martin Treptow was only 25 years old.
After the battle ended, members of the 168th set out to recover the dead and wounded. As Pvt. Treptow’s body and personal effects were recovered, one of the items found was his personal diary. Inside the cover, the following was written:
“America must win this war. Therefore, I will work, I will save, I will sacrifice, I will endure, I will fight cheerfully and do my utmost, as if the issue of the whole struggle depended on me alone.”
Those are powerful words. Pvt. Treptow understood that the success of any endeavor depended on the commitment of each member of the team to do their very best. He also understood that his primary focus had to be on his efforts and contributions to the team. Maximizing his potential was all he could do to help the team succeed.
The 2020 Presidential Election is only a week away. I understand the fatigue you may feel. The political ads, the lockdowns, the quarantines, and the business closures have taken their toll in 2020.
We are truly in a battle for the heart and soul of our country. Be sure to check back in with your Circle of 10 this week (www.Circleof10.vote). Make sure your friends vote by November 3. Adopt the mindset that the whole struggle depends on you alone.
In liberty,
Brett
Past Blog Posts
