For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. Matthew 25:14-15

Last night, Senator Mike Morrell, honored Patriots of the Past, Present, and Future. My husband, Keith Roberts, was honored as a Patriot of the Past Finalist in the Education category. Below is my nomination:

My husband, Keith Roberts, was a JAG in the United States Air Force for 22 years. He faithfully served America throughout the world, serving in the Philippines, Italy, on the East Coast, the West Coast and in the Midwest.

The Philippines during the reign of Ferdinand Marcos and martial law set the foundation that fostered flexibility, adaptation, and a can-do approach to Keith’s service, career, and life. The Philippines boasted the highest rate of Air Force courts-martial in the world. The pressure on JAGs was tremendous. The first week we were in the Philippines, Keith was called upon to travel into the jungle to investigate the crash of an F-16. The remains of the pilot were strewn throughout the jungle. That experience had a profound impact upon him.

I remember Keith preparing young airmen for military action. He prepared their wills and their last arrangements. If President Carter had chosen to send military troops during the 1979 Iranian hostage crisis, Keith would have gone with those Airmen. His bag was packed; he had completed his own will, and he had all of his shots.

Fast forward to 1984. Keith was then stationed at Aviano AB in Italy. When the United States bombed Libya on April 15, 1986, we were there. We lived north of Padua, terrorist headquarters. Base entrances were guarded by soldiers in armored personnel carriers … 50 caliber machine guns on top and pointing at entering vehicles. He regularly drilled with a gas mask and protective gear in case of a chemical weapon attack. He was trained to jab his leg with a syringe filled with atropine. We kept evacuation kits for each member of the family … just in case. In Italy and the Philippines, Keith represented the United Sates Air Force as he worked with local and national dignitaries. Keith was recognized as a leader in the Air Force and in the community.

He began teaching at the University of Redlands as an adjunct professor while he was still in the Air Force. He was passionate about serving as a military officer, and he found that he was passionate about teaching.

After 22 years in the Air Force, Keith chose to serve others as a professor at California Baptist University while still teaching at the University of Redlands School of Business. A few years later, he became a full-time professor at the University of Redlands School of Business and has since become the Interim Dean of the School of Business.

Keith chose to serve America and preserve freedom rather than pursue a corporate attorney career. After his time in the military, Keith chose to lead those focused on teaching college students as well as to teach.

Keith chose a life of service. Keith Roberts chose to preserve freedom. Keith Roberts chose to lead and teach others.

Keith Roberts chose to live a Patriot’s life.

Keith Roberts chose to multiply the talents that God gave him and bless those he touched with freedom, knowledge, and a better life.

My prayer

Father, thank You for all American Patriots. Bless them with the knowledge of You and the knowledge that they have made a difference in America and that they are continuing to make a difference in the lives of others. Thank You for the many blessings You have poured out on America. Revive our souls; heal our land; let freedom ring! God bless America!