The reason I did not say anything is that it seems self-gratuitous to celebrate the day when I am a veteran as well. I know some people here have seen mention of my few years in, but I dont mention it much.
I am a veteran, I served nine years in the US Air Force as an Intelligence Analyst. I may not have seen combat, and the worst place I ended up was in South Korea (which was a nice assignment compared to some), but I did what I could to the best of my abilities. I am proud of my service, but usually do not talk about it, not out of trauma or shame, but because I dont think doing what you think is the right thing needs to be trumpeted to any and all.
However, I have to question something. Whether it is Remembrance Day with solemn respect and poppies, or Veteran's Day with parades and sales, why do we only remember once a year? Many of our Veterans are real heroes, giving flesh and blood and more in exchange for freedoms many take for granted. I may think my brief service is not entirely worthy of celebration, but the real heroes should be remembered and thanked when and where possible.
Dont remember them just on Veteran's Day, remember them every day.
1 comment:
Ryan,
I wholeheartedly agree with your comments. My brother's legs will never be the same due to his service, and my children (his nephew and niece) understand that sacrifice is a daily thing.
I encounter many vets at my place of employment, and I always thank them- no matter their age or their where they served. Many of them were forgotten (Korea, Vietnam) and I take a moment to try and honor them now.
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