and my Son, where ever you are, my thoughts and prayers go with you, not just Today, but every day) AND to the families "who only stand and wait".

Funny, I recently met a provider who was in the IDF Israeli Defence Force.  The Israel Defense Forces differs from most armed forces in the world in many ways. Differences include the mandatory conscription of women and its structure, which emphasizes close relations between the army, navy, and air force. I asked her how she felt about having to serve. She said, "You (everyone) must serve. You have to" I wonder how that would go over in America?

 

Especially to our wounded warriors . Many of whom are contributors to this very board !

Quite frankly I wouldn't mind a bit if we returned to the draft and included EVERYONE, including those born to wealth and privilege.

I kind of felt like she did about my military service, I just thought everyone served, it just never seemed like a big deal to me, and looking back on my military service, considering I wasn't getting shot at, it still doesn't seem like such a big deal. Personally I think we should save our thanks and salutations to those that earned them, and there are more than enough real heroes out there that deserve our gratitude and not get all teary eyed about people that spent a couple of years working in supply, pushing paper around and getting a load of benefits. I don't look down on those people either, I just don't feel any compelling reason to thank them.

A year (or two) of service would benefit most 18 year old's. I did 4 years, but it was a memorable time for me, and no college or university experience could compare ... plus I got educational benefits that came in handy later in life. A year or two of living like a dog in a infantry unit will ensure that most kids go to college because they don't ever want to live like that again.

Whether you are a Soldier that has served our great country in the past, or in the present, or will be in the future, I Thank you!  For those that have family that were lost, I salute you for their bravery and courage to protect us all!!