Show them we care

The first time I did it, several years ago, I was nervous. I never did it before, and I didn't know what the reaction might be or the outcome. But I braved ahead and did it anyway. The end result was something I'll never forget. It happened at O'Hare airport in Chicago. I was changing flights when it happened.

Walking through the terminal I spotted a very young looking man in a full dress military fatigue uniform. I walked up to him, and asked, "Are you on active duty"?  He responded, almost in a military salute fashion, "Yes sir".

I stuck out my hand and said, "Thank you for your service". He responded with a firm handshake, a respectful firm look, then said something I will never forget, and now use it myself on occasions. He just said, "Thank you sir...it's an honor to serve". 

We talked and he told me he was going home for a short leave before deploying to a place he never heard of, called Afghanistan. He seemed so young, and then he asked me if I ever served.
I was proud, but felt a little guilty, when I responded that I was in the U.S.A.F. for four years, but it was during peacetime. 

Then this beautiful young man stuck out his hand to shake and said, "Thank YOU sir for your service". I was dumbfounded and replied like he previously did, "it was an honor for me too".

I then found out why he was a little lost and nervous. He said he had to go because they were calling his flight number. I told him to stay safe over there and come back home. He smiled and said, "I sure hope so...I'm giving my girl an engagement ring before I ship out". And with that he just turned and walked to his boarding gate.

That was years ago, and I know I'll never see that young man again, but I will never forget him. He's on my "prayer list" though, and I hope he made it back home safe; is married with children.

This weekend we celebrate Armed Forces Day. I wear this old Air Force baseball cap, and even at 79 years young I get stopped occasionally and someone will say, "thank you for your service". I always respond with, "it was an honor to serve".

When I spot someone with a military insignia on their hat or jacket I always thank them for their service, especially the young men/women that are serving today. They are all so appreciative, and the old-timers get reminded that they are not forgotten. I know, at 79, I feel that way when I'm approached.

There's so much turmoil going on today surrounding the V.A. corruption. It seems this current administration has forgotten our returning wounded heroes and veterans that are badly in need of good medical care.They are actually using our military, past and present, as political pawns. The very least we can do is show them we care, and they will never be forgotten.

Oh yes, there definitely is something we can do in 169 days....we can take the first step to solving the problems that this administration is causing surrounding our military heroes and veterans.

And that's Politics with Pete for today...God bless our country, and especially our troops.