They range in age from elderly to early twenties. They walk among us every day, some scarred from battle physically and others emotionally. They have seen and experienced things we can never imagine. Thanks to their commitment to our protection we are free.
My Uncle, Father-in-law, and Uncle-in-law were WWII and Korean War Veterans. They seldom talked about what they endured in battle. Many of my friends marched off to Vietnam and returned completely changed. Some returned in body bags, others their bodies whole, were torn apart emotionally.
Since then the Gulf War, Iraq War and Afghanistan War have sent more and more brave young men and women marching off to fight for our freedom. These brave Soldiers put their lives on hold and volunteer to protect the rest of us. My grandson has been in the current war zones for two tours and may go back.
My husband is a Vietnam Veteran. Last year at this time he was in hospital. He had nearly died the week before and came home on Veteran's Day. Just before he was released, an off-duty nurse who had cared for him earlier that week returned to the hospital. He made the rounds of the floor, giving all the Veterans a small American Flag and thanking them for their service.
It was a small gesture. It meant so much. There is no way to express our thanks to that nurse. The little flag still "flies" proudly in my husband's sick room. It is located where he can see it each day upon awakening.
Today I stop and thank my husband, grandson, and all the other veterans for their service to our country and to each of us. May all those who have served, are serving, and will serve in the future be blessed.
AMEN!
ReplyDeleteI have tears in my eyes as I read about the nurse who came back on his day off to be with those who needed him most. A simple gesture of kindness and love with a heart full of thankfulness! GOD bless our soldiers and GOD bless that special nurse for making a difference in a few soldiers lives.
Blessings and hugs, andrea