I do--many, many veterans, plus two in my family and one really big American flag. In fact, it sits atop a 20’ pole that my dad put up when the Supreme Court said burning the flag is free speech. So, dad exercised his own free speech and flew his flag as high as he could.A few years ago, I bought a bigger flag for dad’s big flagpole because the 3’x5’ size on the big pole made it look like a junior flag. Yes, it will be flying 20 feet high again tomorrow.
One more question, “If you know a veteran, do you know their story?” Of course, that could be followed by, “Do you care?” I pray you do. It will make you richer by far to know their history. It's an important part of the history of America. And, knowing that history should encourage you to be grateful for those who have gone before who were willing to pay the price of freedom.
I've been honored to know many veterans, including those two in my family. From them and so many others, I have learned that serving your country is an ‘above and beyond’ kind of job. It’s not just a job, it’s a calling. And there’s something really special about those who have been called and have answered. Even those of my generation who were drafted answered the call. They stepped up when their number came up. Would you?
The thousands of young men who were called to serve in the 1970’s strapped on their boots and packs and waded into the murky waters of Vietnam. Just like their dads before them, they served. From the Forest of Hurtgen to the skies over the oil fields of Ploesti, from the icy cold ground of Korea to the sands of Iraq and Afghanistan, stories emerged of courage and honor and valor. They are all special.
Just as impressive are the incredible women who stepped up and volunteered, serving right alongside their brothers in every conflict and war around the world. I have been honored to know some of the extraordinary women pilots who flew across America during WWII and those from another generation who flew over Iraq and Afghanistan as combat pilots. They were trailblazers and for me, they are ALL our heroes.
All of these Americans are just the best. The very best.
Today, we say “THANK YOU.” Today, we pause, grateful for their willingness to put their lives on the line for ours. They served.
Today, I’d encourage you to find a way to connect to those who are the best of America. Shake a hand, smile, look them in the eye and say, “Thank you for your service.” Ask them where they served. It will make your day, I promise.
Happy Veteran's Day? Well, I'm not sure about happy, but I'm always overwhelmed with gratitude on this special day...and a lot of other days, too.
What else can you do to help to say thank you? GIVE when you can, what you can. Homeless veterans need our help, so do veterans with PTSD or those still doing PT for catastrophic injuries. Here are a few ideas:
ORHF: https://operationrenewedhopefoundation.org
WAGS for Warriors: http://www.wags4warriors.org
Wounded Warrior Foundation: https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org
and, the terrific Central Texas Veterans Research Foundation
God bless you all...and God bless the country we love!
Nancy
