I was brought up as a kid without having any family who served in the military other than my great-grandfather, as far as I knew. To me, at first, it was a day I got out of school. I never understood the reason for the holiday, but we celebrated it in my household every year. When I was in middle school, I was in band. We would march in the Veteran's Day Parade, and my dad would take us to a ceremony of some sort after the parade. I started to realize then just what Veteran's Day really was. My brother joined the Coast Guard while I was in middle school, and that gave me a personal insight into the military.
Then, I got into high school, and was a part of the ensemble who would play special events, most memorable being Memorial Day and Veteran's Day Ceremonies. It was a moving thing to play for war vets and watch them stand up and salute. I will never forget seeing these men, aged and some were seriously wounded in the line of duty, standing strong in their old uniforms or VFW jackets for the National Anthem and the songs for each branch of the military. Seeing the sense of pride they had for their time of service and for the country they served was an inspiring thing. Then, when we were done playing, THEY would thank US for playing! I would always tell them that we are the ones thanking them for their service, and were proud to be able to play for them.
So, Veteran's Day has been an important day for me since I started paying attention to what it meant. Since I became the wife of a soldier, I can't begin to explain to you how important it is for me now. I have seen first hand the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families for the protection of this great nation. I have seen the hardships that come with the decision to dedicate your life to your country and voluntarily putting your duties before your family for the good of your country. It is not easy, but it is something that we are all proud of. I know that when I thank people who have served or are serving, it always brings a smile to their face. I have been with Ian when someone has come up to him out of nowhere and told him thank you for serving. It makes me tear up a bit to see someone outside the military say that to my husband and makes me just that much prouder to be an American and the wife of a soldier.
No matter what day it is, if you see a veteran, no matter the age or length of service, tell them thank you. You never know if they have never heard it before or just how much better it could make their day. Remember this saying: "A Veteran- whether active duty, discharged, retired, or reserve- is someone who, at one point in his/her life, wrote a blank check made payable to 'The United States of America' in the amount of 'up to and including his/her own life.'" That is a Veteran, ladies and gentlemen, and they deserve our thanks for all the sacrifices they make on our behalf.
To all the Veterans out there: My family and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts because without your service, we would not be able to enjoy living in the great country and enjoy the freedoms we have. To those families that support their Veteran family members: We thank you as well because without your support, your veteran would not have been able to stand up and fight for our freedoms. Thank you all who have served, are serving, and will serve, you keep America great! God Bless Our Military and God Bless America!
No comments:
Post a Comment