How to Thank a Veteran

I saw dozens of posts today thanking veterans and I added a few myself, so I got to thinking what it means to actually thank a vet. Certainly saying thank you is due, as are the complimentary meals offered by some restaurants; but shouldn’t more be done to show our appreciation?

First of all, saying thank you isn’t glorifying war or violence, nor is our appreciation the same as some nationalistic, jingoism; no, showing gratitude to those who sacrifice for the benefit of others is just human decency.

I was thinking about a 10 year old boy I know whose father is serving in Afghanistan right now and I imagined the sacrifice this 10 year old was making, along with his family. What thanks do we owe them?

Remember the movie Saving Private Ryan? Toward the end, Captain Miller (Tom Hanks) whispers to Private Ryan (Matt Damon) and says, “Earn this”. Years later when Ryan is visiting the Normandy beach with his family, looking over the thousands of crosses of those who gave their lives to rescue Europe, he stopped at Captain Ryan’s grave and with tears and a heavy heart he asks his wife if he has been a good man. He knows too well what his life cost, how so many gave up their future that he might live his.

So how do we thank a veteran for our freedom? Live as good citizens, contribute, work hard, be honest, love America by loving your fellow Americans; participate in this experiment in democracy, vote, get involved in your community, be informed, care, or as Captain John Miller said, “Earn this.”

Happy Veterans Day.