Thank You for Your Service

You know why seeing people say "Thank you for your service" either online or in person (like at an airport) means so much to me?

Because my husband is a Vietnam vet, and I remember what it was like for them when they came home. And it wasn't a kind thank you.

My hubby talks about how horrible it was being somewhere people were actively trying to kill him, but also being worried about how they would be treated when they came home. 

They didn't only come home to hostility and insults, but indifference. Instead of being welcomed, some people spit on them and called them baby killers. The were blamed for a war they didn't start and had no control over.

You know what I admire? How they made sure that our troops coming home from subsequent conflicts weren't treated that way. They helped our country separate the war from those sent to fight it.

The first time I saw in real life that welcome and the words "Thank you for your service," I cried.

So, yeah. Thank you for your service. And I thank the family members left to handle everything at home while you were gone.