I am not a child, wife, sister, or mother of a veteran. My dad was too young for active duty during the Korean Police Action. My husband carried a draft card after his eighteenth birthday, but missed the Vietnam War draft. The honors, troubles, and stories did not live in my home. 

However, Great uncles solidified loyalty to their adopted country fighting for American liberty. Cousins, neighbors, colleagues and friends had served the USA in one military form or another. Their honors, troubles, and stories reverberate within family and friend circles. All the servicemen and women I knew and now know served with honor and courage.

I can’t imagine the determination and bravery for a young person to train and become one within the masses defending American liberty and freedoms. They sacrificed their youth, wellbeing, health and lives with integrity and good faith. The genuine sprit and life generosity overwhelms and deserves honor, respect, and support. Not one is a loser, a false citizen, growing soft within their units and civilian life (what a shameful sentiment!)

On Veterans Day, our military citizens are greeted with a handshake, a “thank you for your service” announcement, a day off to parade and remember—for the day. Some don their uniform, others leave it for the moths in the back of the closet. All carry the weight of their individual service.  

I think a more appropriate gesture is to appreciate and live the freedoms our veterans fought for. Exercise your freedom to speak, write, and disagree (without malice and sarcasm), and the grace to actively listen. Show how your loyalty includes a bit of sacrifice, generous support to all, and a welcomed hand. Remain focused on what you can do to make liberty possible for all.

Are you a veteran? Do you have family members who have served in the military? What are your thoughts on Veterans Day?

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