In Remembrance 11/12/2009
 
Today was Veterans Day here in the U.S. In the past I didn't give much thought to the day, as I didn't really know anyone who was a veteran. This year, however, it's become especially important to me because I have a direct connection to the mil community and many more current members of the U.S. military and veterans of wars. 

The last week or so has been crazy. With everything that happened at Ft. Hood and then the 234th. birthday of the USMC, plus Veterans Day, this has been the most I've seen of discussion in the civilian world about the military - in the media, among friends, etc. -  in probably my entire life. In a way, it saddens me, because we should think of our men and women in uniform all year round, not just once a year, but I suppose that happens with many things. 

Another thing about Veterans Day...my boyfriend is an active duty soldier, and on Veterans Day he received emails and such from people telling him they are proud. But as far as being  "veteran," he's not. He hasn't faced combat (yet), and while yes, his service is important and I am very proud of him, the attitude of lumping thanking all military personnel just doesn't sit well with me. 

Perhaps I'm being picky, but that's just how I see it. I don't take their service for granted and never have, but I would like to see people distinguish veterans and active armed forces members when they decide to thank them for their service on Veterans Day. 

The distinction is important and hopefully in the future more attention is paid to this than it has been presently. I can offer no solutions for these actions other than to pledge people to think before they thank. It is not wrong to thank veterans and active service members on Veterans Day, but one should understand the meaning behind why they serve and protect each day. 
 


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