Just what is this holiday that seems to prompt huge sales at retail outlets and for others a day to drink and have cookouts or other celebrations? Oddly, veterans rarely get the day off from their jobs like other holidays and likely make no big deal of it at all; instead, quietly recall their own experiences and their fellow veterans.
Though many well meaning people like to wish veterans “Happy” Veteran’s Day; however, it is not actually a day of celebration for those of us that have served this country, especially the millions that have been in combat. In reality, it is somewhat of a somber day. A day of reflection and a time to honor our brothers and sisters in arms, not a time that we glorify war and gloat.
In this time of great divisiveness and turmoil, many don’t even give this day a passing thought, even though many people have friends or loved ones that have served in the armed forces at one time or another. It is rare for many people to even acknowledge this day, aside from enjoying it as a day off. Some who have strong personal opinions may even hold resentment and an aversion towards those men you see wearing a baseball cap with graphics identifying them as veterans.
Something to keep in mind is, you can support veterans without agreeing with war. Veterans didn’t start the wars, we just answered the call and sacrificed for this country and its people. Many of our comrades made the ultimate sacrifice. This is our day to honor them. So, if you encounter a veteran perhaps a “Thanks for your service” would be a more appropriate comment to make, and keep in mind , for some of us, every day is veteran’s day.
