Proud To Be a Veteran

originally posted Veteran's Day 2014

Just read a post that made me so sad. Clearly the author was so bitter about his time in service. Didn't shock me though. I've known others who became very embittered during their service and like to make sure the world knows how unfair it all was.

I want to say, though, for each individual with a chip on his shoulder, there are so many more servicemen and women who are proud of their service. They are proud of their country and quietly serving. They believe in their country so much they would lay down their lives for you and me. Sadly, I've been some heroes' funerals. It never gets easier. For a time, it took a deep toll on my husband as well. We've been through much.

I've read that only half a percent of Americans ever join the military. We're a select few. You never quite forget the others who have served alongside of you. Admittedly, there are some you wish you could forget some of the most incredible people I've ever known, I met while in the military.

They say in every job, there will be 10% who just won't like the job. Those are the ones you hear about because they are complaining. Often you forget about the 90% who are sacrificing much for a country they believe in.

I'm one of the many who is extraordinarily proud to be a veteran. I'd like to see our country do more to embrace veterans and treat them as the heroes they truly are.

And, that is all.