How I spent my Veteran's Day

[SFC B]

Veteran's day this year was a little rough for me. I won't go into all of it, but just suffice to say that I wasn't in a state to be around people or events. So, this is what I did....First, starting drinking the cider and chocolate/caramel vodka. Next, smoked the ribs on the ol Traeger. Finally, lit the first fire of the year and enjoyed all three while thinking of those not still with us. Cheers to all vets from all services and countries, sacrifice is our common thread.

 

[Straight Arrow]

As a Vietnam vet I can relate to your mood as similar feelings have overcome me at times.

However, it seems to be gone as time and finally recognition for my service has evolved.
Also grandchildren have completed invaded my life ... that's a good thing.
I attended two wonderful elementary/middle school assemblies replete with kid's artwork, music, and patriotic songs. I visited a kindergarten, a 1st grade, and a 3rd grade classroom with my Army aviator teddy bear, replica Huey helicopters, flight suit, and old flight helmet. I played with the kids and talked about helicopters, how they fly and how they are used. Once a volunteer stepped up to wear the ten-times-too-large flight suit, nomex flight gloves, and visored flight helmet then all the kids just had to try them on and make a call to the tower!

I sincerely thank you for your service and truly wish someday you may be able to substitute time with grandkids for time with the vodka. It's really the right kind of high.

 

[TheShootist.41]

Similar feelings for many of us, I would think. I too shed a few tears for those lost both during and after RVN. It hurts to see what the current war has done to so many of our best. Thank you all vets for what you have done and are doing.

 

[Jwill]

Thanks for your service and sacrifices guys. Speaking of Veterans, has anybody heard from EOD Ray lately?

 

[SFC B]

Thanks for your service and sacrifices guys. Speaking of Veterans, has anybody heard from EOD Ray lately?

I haven't and I was wanting to get together with him when he got back....I will send him a PM!

 

[pointingdogsrule]

You guys are the best!!!!!

good luck to all
the dog

 

[JohnCushman]

Veteran's day used to be pretty rough for me, but now that I'm married it's my wife's birthday. So, I can sort of concentrate on her for the day instead of dwelling on my feelings.

 

[SFC B]

Similar feelings for many of us, I would think. I too shed a few tears for those lost both during and after RVN. It hurts to see what the current war has done to so many of our best. Thank you all vets for what you have done and are doing.

I am glad that you guys are finally getting some decent treatment. We have had it so easy compared to what you had to endure and it is very difficult for me to accept thanks from those that have given so much themselves. I had the pleasure of pulling overnight guard duty when the "traveling" wall came to Ft Carson a couple of years back and it was one of the most meaningful things I have done in the military. I got to see all of the letters and gifts left for those fallen as well as making a rubbing for my wife from her uncle. Sunrise was surely bittersweet that morning.

 

[MinnesotaHunter]

To all those who have served and to those who have gone before us. Thank you (a few days late).

I always try and remind myself that if I was the one who didn't make it, my biggest wish would be that my brothers lived full, happy lives. Making sure that they took full advantage of the freedom we fought for. I try and do this everyday, because I cannot stand the idea of those who gave everything, looking down and thinking I wasted my life. So, for the survivors out there, honor the fallen, and live your life like you are living it for all of them.