This is my reply to a post from Cexshun last week on this topic but it bears repeating as this weekend nears a close. From all of us Veterans to all of you:
I was in my khaki uniform one fine day in a Home Depot in sunny SOCAL, just to pick up some nails for a project I was working on. A woman whom I had never seen, never met, came up to me and thanked me for my service. This was probably the best day of my career because it was the first time in almost 20 years someone had done anything that personal. I stopped in my tracks, and trembled because this was so humbling. Pride swelled and confidence grew and finally a word sort of dribbled from my tounge..."Thanks". I couldn't have said any more. She shook my hand and walked away, her husband waved to me and I waved back. After much thought, I decided I should have been better prepared, so I worked on it for a while and here's what I have come up with...
"I am proud to be your servant. It gives me great joy to know I have made a diference in the lives of millions of free Americans just because I put this uniform on. It is my honor to be one of many given the task of protecting our freedoms. Please remember the veterans who have gone before us and pray for families and the safety of all those close to the fight. I don't do it for the money or the glory, but...for moments like this, when I come face to face with those who have placed their faith and trust in me. It is I who thank you."
I'm retired now and I am just another one of those who appreciate the sacrifices of our men and women on the lines and pray for them every day. It was a special time and I will never forget it.
Take care.