Thank a Vet

Veterans Day is an official United States holiday that honors people who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, also known as veterans.

Today, I want to thank those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country.  I want to thank the dedicated soldiers at home and deployed across the seas for defending our freedom.  I want to thank the families of these dedicated men and women – see they pay the ultimate price too as they share their loved ones with us.  Life for a military family isn’t easy either so today I honor them too for their service.

My dad served in the Army. He never really talked a lot about it but I do know that he changed his birthdate on his birth certificate so that he could join the Army.  It one of those stories that we always wondered if it was true.  My dad is great for TALL tales….. I never really knew many in the military growing up.

I do remember one year that we had a few soldiers come for a holiday dinner.  Dad picked them up and they spend the whole day with us while they enjoyed a home cooked meal.  Then I would have to fast-forward to my next real encounter with the military – enter my best friend – Steph, her hubby – Bill and their kids – Jen, Sean, Ryan and Shane.  Our families become melded into one during Bill’s deployment during Operation Freedom.  It was my first up close and personal experience of the sacrifices made by our military and their families.

Now, as I wait for the date that my nephew, Jimmy, is sent off to boot camp – I am again faced with the reality of the sacrifices of our military men and women  along with their family.  I also remember the Belinda’s friends of who serve our country – Spena and Rupert.

This day is for you… if you should see someone from the military today, thank them.  Better yet, buy them a cup of coffee or lunch.  What better way to thank them for their selfless service that with a random act of kindness.

Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!

#gratitudeformilitary

#Army

#Veteran’s Day