Have you said thank you

[SonjaB]

to the veterans in your life on this Veteran's Day? It only takes a minute to show appreciation and love for those who gave sacrificially, many giving the ultimate sacrifice, to protect the freedoms we hold dear.

My family is well-represented. My grandfather served in the Army Air Corp. during WWII, my father fought in Viet Nam in the Air Force, my brother went through the breech into Iraq with the US Marines during the Gulf War and my fiance' served during the Gulf War with the Navy.

As I watch women in various parts of the world, their faces hidden behind burquas, unwelcome to walk without escort in public, stoned to death for making decisions that are strictly personal, beaten for trying to learn to read, and doomed to starvation if they have no male family member to work outside the home, I thank God for brave men like these, and brave women as well, who protect our lives and our way of life at the risk of their own existence. I wish I had more than just "thank you" to give back.

Who are the loved and maybe even lost vets in your life?

 

[newmousecateer]

My father-in-law was a turret gunner in WWII and DH was a medic during the Viet Nam war.

Very nice post Sonja, thank you.

 

[honeywolf7]

My dad was an Air Force Captain, my half-brother was an Air Force Sargeant, and one of my uncles was in the Air Force as well. An aunt and uncle of mine were also in the Air National Guard (I think that's what it's called, anyway) at one point in their lives.

 

[nativetxn]

My father fought in the Philippines during WWII (he died February, 2001). Two of my uncles were in Germany during WWII and my FIL was in the army but served stateside as an MP at one of the training centers. I only have one uncle who served who is still living.

One brother was in the Army and one brother in the Navy. One first cousin (male) served in Saigon Harbor in the Navy in the early 70's and his sister was an Army nurse in the early 70's but not in Viet Nam.

I offer my gratitude to all who have served our country.

 

[Keli]

This has always been a day of significance for me personally. My father was extreemly patriotic and he always let us know about our families contributions to our country--especially military ones. It has always seemed ironic that he died on this day in 1976. My great uncle died in WWII. He was serving on the USS Hoel when it was sunk by the Japanese. My uncle served during the Korean conflict and both my dad and stepdad served in vietnam and my stepdad and two of my brothers went to Iraq during the persian gulf war. Considering how many family members have served in the military it is amazing that my great uncle was the only casulty. Thank you to all our veterans that have served our country and God bless America.

 

[bsnyder]

Like Keli, I grew up in a very patriotic family where Veterans Day held a lot of significance. Back when we used to have an annual parade, I always marched in it with my grandfather. He's the special vet in my life and I always honor him on this day.

My grandfather served in 3 wars.

He was fresh out of Virginia Military Insitute at the age of 19 when he organized and served as Captain of Company H, 2nd Florida Infantry, and fought in the Mexican Border War.

He served as Captain of the 124th Infantry, European Theatre in World War I.

He served as Brigadier General, Artillery Commander, 31st Division, Pacific Theatre in World War II and then was promoted to Major General, Commander 51st Infantry Division, Pacific Theatre.

He retired as a Lieutenant General in 1952.

His wife, my mother's mother, died right before the start of WWII. My mother was 7 years old at the time, and spent the next 5 years living with various relatives, while my grandfather was preparing for war and then fighting in the Pacific. We have a wonderful collection of letters that he wrote to my mom from New Guinea.

God bless all our Veterans today!

 

[JohnTBap]

Just about to send an ecard. I would call, but he's teaching class tonight.

 

[I <3 Eeyore]

My dad served in Korea in the Air Force, one brother served in the Air Force, one in the Army, and my daughter is overseas right now with her Army National Guard unit. My thoughts and prayers are with all Vets today and always.

 

[Goofyposter]

Groosch!...

I've had family in....

The Revolutionary War
The Spanish American War
The Civial War
WWI
WWII
Korea
and indirectly, the Persian Gulf, and "events" since 9-11...

I agree...everyone should say THANK YOU to anyone..who gives their time to represent..and sometimes fight and die for...Democracy!

GREAT post! Thank Yer!

 

[Disney Doll]

As a matter-of-fact, I did. Ialso thanked a couple of my patients that I took care of at work last night.One elderly gentleman, who was a little on the confused side, became very clear and eloquent when speaking about WWII, which he was a part of. These people are so interesting to listen to!! And so wise. And brave. I thanked him for risking his life for me, so that I can live free.

 

[olena]

Military service is important in our family, too. My grandfather's motto was 'God, Country and Family'. He served in the Navy and Army. He was a veteran of WWII, Korea and Vietnam. He was so proud of his service. Most of the men in my family have served in the military in some capacity.

On Veteran's Day, my father always wears his VFW hat to work and gives out American Flags to co-workers who ask him about or comment on the hat, etc. Yesterday, some young guy made some very snide remarks about it within earshot. He called Dad an 'old fart' and some nastier things. Dad heard him, but ignored it. I was mad when I heard about it.

When they put their lives on the line for us, people like that are included. No matter how disrespectful they are.

As for me, I appreciate every sacrifce that all servicewomen and men have made.