As a former Chief Petty Officer serving in the 70's to the 90's I can say that the nation appreciating veterans is welcomed and has not always been the predominant sentiment.  It is a wonderful thing for the nation to understand that the veteran, although not always a willing participant in unpopular endeavors, is still compelled to give unequaled dedication and efforts because that is what the active duty service member does.  They/we have provided this wonderful country with the freedoms enjoyed by those that have little idea of the the importance of unquestioned actions, teamwork and trust that boarders on insane and a love for comrades that have stood shoulder to shoulder and back to back through events that can never be understood by those not participating.  I/we have only been able to tell a story and sometimes those stories just are not enough to convey the impact a situation had on my soul.  This I have found to be true in all phases of my life.  The older I get the more I learn too enjoy the moments of the journey and stop worrying about the destination.........hell it will probably change anyway!

HAPPY VETERANS DAY!