A Reader’s Story of Family Reconciliation Reminds US of What Makes America an Exceptional Place

He risked it all when he married a woman who wasn’t Jewish. He’s grateful that in America, you don’t have to choose between faith and love.

(L to R) The writer's wife Ingrid, with his mother and father. Courtesy of Kerry Berman

Why do I love America? There are many wonderful reasons. This country offers you choices and the freedom to choose any worthwhile path, practice your faith, and accomplish the desires of your heart.

I was expelled from Hebrew school at 13, dropped out of high school at 15, and joined the Marine Corps at 17. Two months after I turned 18, I found myself in Vietnam as a radio operator and tunnel rat on the front lines for eight months. When my commanding officer found out I could type, I became a colonel’s secretary for the last five months of my 13-month tour.