When my crew went out, there were no Democrats or Republicans. We were not sponsored by, or party to, any ideology, other than our loyalty to the U.S. The earning of promotions and the amassing of clout were not on our minds. Why? Because we felt lucky. Lucky to be focused on mission and each other. Lucky to participate in something bigger than self-interest, which is when you get gifted with love. And love is what I clearly felt for my colleagues, and the dogs.