Sunday, November 21, 2010

Veteran's Day

So I'm pretty late with this post but I guess its normal to get behind with a newborn.
On Facebook I am friends with the U.S. Army page.  Well, on Veteran's Day a thread was posted on their discussion board about a gentleman who was told he wasn't a veteran because he is still currently serving, despite his fourteen years of service and multiple deployments.  And yes, he has been deployed to combat zones.  To some a veteran is someone who has been honorably discharged from the military, to others a veteran is someone who has served in a combat zone or served during a time of war.  To me, current military should also be celebrated and remembered on Veteran's Day.  Just because they are still serving, does not mean that their sacrifices aren't worth being thankful for.  I can't imagine someone telling my husband that he is not a veteran.  And the person's reason for why the gentleman wasn't a veteran?  Because he is still drawing a government paycheck.  The confusing part is that when someone retires from the military they still draw a "government paycheck".  To me that means he doesn't think that retired military are veterans either.  I can't imagine how the man felt standing there, being told that his service didn't count yet.
Regardless of your definition of a veteran, I hope that everyday you are thankful for our past and present military.  They deserve more than just one day.  They are willing to put their life on the line for our freedom and comfort and many have paid the ultimate price already.  Please remember all military personnel and their families in your prayers daily.  And to all past and present military, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

1 comment:

Meagan McCann said...

Agreed Danie! I am so thankful to ALL of our military. I always hate the controversy. I don't care when you served, how long you served, if you are still serving, or for what branch you serve... I am still thankful for you!