As an academic, I am challenged daily with a variety of tasks. None more important than the work I do with students at all levels. If it is reading a thesis/dissertation, critiquing a photo, helping with a service activity or simply lending an ear or shoulder, the work is rewarding yet time consuming. However, on this particular day (Memorial Day), one thought/one former student is a constant in my mind. In the Fall of 2001, I began my academic career as a newbie assistant professor of agricultural communications. I taught an entry-level writing course for agricultural communications majors but had students from several other majors also in the course.
Luke S. James was an animal science major. He was in my course to fulfill a writing requirement for his degree plan. Luke had a bright personality and always had a smile on his face. Of course many Americans lost their smile on Sept. 11, 2001. Luke was no different. We witnessed a senseless attack on humanity. I remember vividly talking with all my classes about the events that occurred that day and during the following days. I had class with Luke and his classmates the day following the attacks. We talked about the impact to agriculture, and the way the crisis was handled from a communications standpoint. At one point during the discussion we talked about how America should respond. I remember Luke stating that no matter how we respond, he was ready to serve his country and fight for the blanket of freedom we are provided. At the time, I had no idea he would get his wish and ultimately would lay his life down fighting for the very freedom I/we take for granted every day.
I saw Luke on multiple occasions during the next few semesters as he finished his degree in the College of Agriculture. He always stopped by to say hello or wish me a good day. I remember having a conversation with him in late 2002 about the possibility of the war in Iraq. Again, he said he was ready to serve our country if his name was called. In March of 2003, the United States of America launched an invasion into Iraq. Soon thereafter, Luke was preparing for deployment.
Luke deployed to Iraq in January of 2004, as best I can recall. Unfortunately, his service didn’t last long as he was in an improvised explosive device attack and died on January 27, 2004. When I got word, I was shocked. Luke gave the ultimate sacrifice so that I may enjoy the freedoms I have today. I am forever grateful for his service and his sacrifice. He will remain in my heart forever. Luke led his life with honesty, integrity and courage. For that I am thankful. Luke left behind a wife and child who I pray for this day that they may have comfort and peace.
In the summer of 2004, I visited Luke while in DC. I searched out his resting place in Arlington Cemetery and spent a few moments in conversation with him and God. I thanked him for his service and promised to visit him every time I am in DC, if my schedule will allow. I also promised to reflect often on the sacrifices made by those who put themselves in harms way. Today, I pray for peace around the world. I also pray that those who have lost loved ones or have loved ones fighting for our country will feel a warm embrace of love, compassion and comfort on this day.
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