I was 17 years old sitting on the edge of my bed when I witnessed war for the first time. It was the opening air strike in the Gulf War. I was shocked. I was amazed. I was terrified. My country was at war. I see it as one of those things as if you aren't directly involved you can't fully grasp the magnitude. Both of my grandfathers were war vets and I have listened over the years to their limited story telling doing my best to imagine what it was really like.
I remember the excitement of leaving home. Sure I'll miss everyone but I'm off to college. The world was mine for the taking. But not even for one second do I try to make the comparison of going off to college to the likes of going off to war. Unless some freak tragic accident I could come home whenever I got ready. Unlike the many who have served our country who were never guaranteed any return home... ever. I can only imagine the emotion of leaving home for potentially the final time. I can not imagine losing friends, forever.
There are several things that I have always envied of men who have served in the military. I have a limited understanding of honor for one. But to serve my country... no that's a flood of honor. I have always appreciated the sense of discipline our veterans seem to have. I have often wondered what kind of man I would be today had I served in the military. Those who have served walk differently. They have a swagger like none other. And talk about loyalty... they understand it.
As I reflect on this Veteran's Day I realize once again that I have a limited capacity to appreciate the numerous sacrifices made by men, women and families all across America. My best gratitude will always remain insufficient. To our Veteran's... hats off to you.
