Went to see the Braves over the weekend. They had a Marine who'd just returned from Iraq as a special guest. When he came out on the field, he was wildly cheered, as he should have been.
I started thinking about how this man being cheered was part of a war many people do not support, much like the Vietnam War. The biggest difference is Gulf War veterans are treated much better than many Vietnam veterans were when they returned home. That is one thing war protesters today are better at. They see they can oppose the war but still support the troops.
Saw another example of this when I was flying out of Oklahoma City a couple months ago. Saw this woman come through security carrying balloons. Couldn't really tell why and was wondering what she was going to do with them when we boarded the plane. Turned out she was waiting for her husband to return from Iraq. When he came into the terminal, he ran towards her. Everyone in the terminal stopped what they were doing to give him an ovation.
We should always thank our veterans (no matter what generation they are) whenever we have a chance. They make sacrifices for our country (and you) we will never fully understand. Whether you support the policies or not, our military and its veterans serve an important role for our country. We have a military designed to protect us not suppress us. Because of veterans, you have the right to protest, the right to vote, and the right to be free overall.
So, the next time you complain about the government without going to jail, worship as you choose, cast a vote, or take advantage of any other freedoms you have, be sure to say a prayer of thanks for our vets. They make sacrifices so you don't have to!
No comments:
Post a Comment