[budw38]

Originally Posted by CRedskinsRule

I respect that thought, and have felt that way myself, however, every military person who has put on the uniform, has accepted the risks and obligations of defending our country and is deserving of respect and thanks. My guess is, that had your unit been called into a warzone, or more particularly, had it been put in harms way to stop a force that was invading USA soil, you would have gone and fought to the last of your ability to protect this country. That's what people are thanking you, and every veteran, this day. Further, as you Trample have pointed out, when you wore the uniform and were stationed overseas, you represented the US in whatever country you were stationed. Your presence in Japan, or mine during the drawdown in Europe, showed what our country strives to believe in, peace through strength, respect of countries laws and boundaries. We showed that a military does not have to invade and occupy as German or Soviet troops have done, and those wearing the uniform represent the ideal of civilian control over a massive defense structure to governments and populations throughout the world.

As you can tell, I don't any longer agree that only those who served in wars should be honored for their service. To everyone who has worn the uniform, represented our country's finest ideals, protected our borders by their simple presence as a deterrent. Again I say thanks.

Great post . Anyone who is brave enough to sign 3 or more years of their life to serve has earned the respect of all Americans IMO .