To all who are serving and to those who served

+2!!! I served in the Navy and have been in a couple places and situations that were a little scary. but while I believe my service is respectable I don't put my own service in the same category as those who have looked down the barrel of an enemy rifle in a situation where it was kill or be killed. My respect to all but my greatest respect is for those who have seen the face of the enemy directly. And to those families who gave the ultimate price for the freedoms we enjoy.

I often think of soldiers killed in action, especially those I knew personally. I am at a loss as to how to respond when people thank me for serving. I served with a mind set that it was a privilege and an honor to be there for what ever assignment I was given. My wife loved the environment of living on base and two of my three children served. My son also retired from the Army after serving his last few years in the special forces. As mentioned above the whole family suffered when a member failed to come home alive. Service personnel cannot win without the supplies and weapons of war provided by those at home. I think there should be a day to honor those who serve the cause but not in uniform. Ben, US Army Retired and still serving proudly.

Well said Sir +1

A song that touches my heart:
With high cheek bones and dark sad eyes and shaggy coal black hair, the old man squared his shoulders and returned the Judges stare:
When the Judge pronounced him guilty of the charge of vagrancy, he said; I've heard your honor now your honor you hear me.
I hadn't harmed a single sole when they arrested me. But I'm no thief or beggar and its no crime to be broke. I have no job or money just a few old ragged clothes. I was fit to fight your war am I not fit to walk your streets. I once shook the great MacAuther's hand. He pinned his medals on me for I was his kind of man. I stood my ground in that red hot hell, when brave men turned and ran, yes I once shook the Great MacAuther's hand. Your Honor, I am not concerned about the likes of you, I earned the great mans handshake and that's all the pride I need.

Fabulous post Ozark. It is a terrible shame that so many of our service men with their families live below the poverty line and many return home to no job and few skills that are readily convertible to the civilian environment. Many find that conversion to be very difficult and a number find themselves among the homeless. They have given so much and often receive so little. My prayers to them every day.

I serve as a volunteer at a National Cemetery providing military honors for deceased veterans and their spouse. I have served as a volunteer with different organizations over the years. None has given me the sense of pride and accomplishment I feel when a bereaved family member asks to shake my hand as he/she is thanking me and the other members of the squad for doing what we are doing. Yes sir, I feel honored and humbled for being allowed to provide this service. If you are within driving distance of a national cemetery,are a veteran who served honorably and want to do something meaningful for our fellow veterans and their families,you should look into it.