They know service was about their willingness to endure shin splints and blistered feet from too many miles of marching and running.
It was about doing sit-ups on wet beaches on mornings that were too cold and came much too early.
It was about their ability to endure one another’s incessant whining as they made an avocation of complaining about being tired, wet, cold, and sore.
It was about enduring the failings and weaknesses that were exposed when they discovered the limits of their endurance.
They know service requires loving their home so much that they willingly give up all they cherish so others may be safe.
They know that in serving our homeland they gave up their ability to watch over their own homes, churches, and communities.
It meant leaving their families for far-off lands and seas and that no matter how many cards and letters and pictures and videos their families sent it could never replace the time they missed being with their children, watching over them and letting them know they were there to protect them.
The next time you see a veteran, please stop and say thank you, tell them God loves them, and that your life has been blessed because of their service.
Written By: HelpVet.net