Don't Wish Me "Happy Veteran's Day"

 Don’t wish me a happy Veteran’s Day.  Veteran’s Day makes me remember those I served with and I don’t mind that.  But it also forces me to remember those who didn’t get to live and be recognized for their service. I know that most people would not realize that.  I also know that most people don’t think veterans are bothered by someone wishing them well and trying to show appreciation.  Veteran’s Day is also a time when we check on our past friends and see how our “brothers in arms” are doing.  This year I heard about a brother who passed away, but we’re getting to the age where it’s older age setting in.  He had cancer.  I remember his relationship with tobacco as being pretty heavy so it is no big surprise at what killed him.  I was also in contact with a brother who is still suffering greatly from his PTSD experience.  Thankfully he is getting help and has been for some time.  His family also supports him a lot.  It was good touching base with him and seeing how he is coping.  I too still deal with the effects of my limited combat experience.  I don’t like crowds yet I go to church every week.  That’s actually how I deal with it.  I believe I can get better by facing the problem and dealing with it.  My wife and kids help me quite a bit with their unwavering support.

  Veterans Day is a holiday dedicated to American veterans of all wars. Veterans Day occurs on November 11. In 1918, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in World War I, then known as “the Great War.”

Commemorated in many countries as Armistice Day the following year, November 11th became a federal holiday in the United States in 1938. In the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War, Armistice Day became known as Veterans Day.

Remember this day and remember there are those who gave all that we may have the country and freedoms we have.  I’m grateful for all who served and a day to commemorate that is a good idea.  Just remember that there are those who sometimes try to forget their experience in defending this country. 

Thank you for all your gratitude, if I may speak for all veterans.  It is similar to Memorial Day for me.  A time to check on your brothers, and a time to reflect on if I am measuring up to those we lost.  Sometimes the guilt of being able to see my children grow up is a little overwhelming.  But then I think about those guys and how much they wanted all of us to enjoy that and everything life can bring, then I know that I can go on and keep trying.

Semper Paratus

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