From one vet to another Paul, thank you for your thoughts on Veteran’s Day. I have received a few Happy Veteran’s Day greetings on FB. I don’t know that it is " Happy" day but I accept the thought behind it.
The percentage of population who are vets has been steadily dropping, now down to 7% of the US population. 93% of the US does not know the camaraderie, teamwork, and discipline that we have gained from our service through our service. In the coming years more, not less, of the US population will not have had those benefits nor experienced the risks that came from US military service. With those dynamics, I have concluded that trend is not good for our nation.
I hate war, have kids who have also volunteered, and worried like all parents about the safety and preservation of our “veteran” kids. I’ve been lucky, both me and my kids who have also served did not give the ultimate sacrifice. Nonetheless, none of us are the same after our military service has ended. Your story validates that.
I am thankful for your service, as well as, to all my veteran brethren, their service. Likewise, to those who serve in other battlegrounds such as Covid care, police/firefighters, and the millions of volunteers who serve local and rural communities as emergency first responders. A salute of respect to all who have earned the creds to be called veterans.