We Extend Sympathy
This titanic war for human freedom is bound to bring tragedy into many of our homes. Lt. Henry B. Roberson, Marine corps pilot was recently killed in a plane crash off our east coast. This heroic young man was twenty-two years old, the son of Brother and Sister Charles H. Roberson of Abilene, Texas. Brother Roberson is head of the Bible department of Abilene Christian College. Lt. Roberson got his wings in the Marine corps just a few weeks before my young son, John, got his in the Army Air force. This quite naturally heightened my feeling in connection with the tragedy that descended on the Roberson family. I visited the family soon after the tragedy and was profoundly touched by their heroism in the face of such sorrow. Heroic sons call for heroic parents. People such as they are make this country great. Brother Roberson assured me that he could not even think of such a thing as enjoying the fruits of citizenship in our great country without bearing the responsibilities that go along with it, including its necessary tragedies. Many of us feel exactly like that. About a week after his son was buried, the Robersons gave up a grandchild, the two year-old daughter of another son sickened and died. We devoutly believe that this stricken family are receiving the sustaining grace of God in these trials. They have from us the deepest sympathy we are capable of feeling and expressing.
I think it proper in this connection to mention that The Abilene Reporter-News of August 16th lists "Ninety-four ex-students of Abilene Christian college" who "are now serving as officers in the Armed Forces of the United States." There are doubtless many others serving as enlisted men in the ranks. We pray for the time to come when these men may return to civil life again, proud of the service they have rendered their country in time of war, and ready for what we hope will be greater service in a world at peace.