When I got up this morning I hoped that someone would start a Veteran’s Appreciation post today. Like many here, I come from a family where my father served in WWII and the Korean Conflict. I served during the Viet Nam era and while none of my children have opted for the military, I somehow still feel very connected to those young people who continue to willingly enlist to serve this great country and put their lives on the line for those around the world who did not have the good fortunate to be born free.

I flew from Florida back to Portland last Saturday morning after a week of business in Jacksonville. As I sat in the airport, a dozen or so young sailors passed through the terminal. Eyes bright and heads bald, they proudly wore their spanking new uniforms complete with their Nation Defense ribbon and in some cases, one or two other lesser awards on their chests. They displayed the epitome of class and politeness and a bit of “strut” as people greeted them and they shook hands with passer bys. I had a lump in my throat and was overwhelmed with pride as if they were all my own – and in a very real sense, they are “our own sons and daughters”.

I also reflected on a conversation I had had earlier in the week with an elderly black gentleman who was eating lunch in a park outside my hotel. He was wearing a “US Army Retired” ball cap and I thanked him for his service to his country. He warmly grabbed my hand and said, “back at you son” – reading my face he continued, “It’s written all over you and I can always tell those who have been there too.”

It’s a bond that soldiers have known for millennia. Thank you, fellow warriors – for your contribution. If you are (or were) a truck driver, cook, admin, supply sergeant, or a front line infantry man. If you flew, or sailed, or drove to the action. If you blessed us in a chapel, treated us in a hospital, or fed is in a mess hall I pray God’s blessing and keeping on you all. Please know that this ol’ vet will buy your dinner anytime you’re in my town.

My Sincerest Regard and Appreciation to All Veterans,
Glenn