even when they were patiently suffering and when they were demonstrating their “invincible fortitude in action.” His greatest wish for them was that “ample justice be done them here,” and that “the choicest of heaven’s favours both here and hereafter, attend those who, under the divine auspices, have secured innumerable blessings for others.” Folks, we are living in the “hereafter” that Washington had reference to, and we are those “others” for whom those early veterans “secured innumerable blessings.” Wouldn’t they all turn over in their graves if they could hear some of our excuses for not exercising one of the greatest blessings they provided. There should be no excuse for anyone failing to take a few minutes of their time and going to their polling place and casting their ballot.