Posted on 11/14/2006 2:51:46 PM PST by YellowRoseofTx
S. Marine Corps Cpl. Shaun Sanders' account of what it means to serve his country was one that watered the eyes of many, mine included.
This fine young man, for our newspaper's Veteran's Day edition, was asked to write what it means to be a veteran, from the younger generation's perspective. He wrote about returning home from a tour in Iraq last year with about 20 exhausted comrades when they unexpectedly came across a crowd of strangers at a Dallas airport. The people were dressed in red, white and blue, cheering and clapping during a public display of gratitude for their military service.
Among those well-wishers were veterans of previous wars, including a Vietnam vet, with a cap identifying him as such, who shook Sanders' hand and thanked him. That's when the young Marine also thanked the elderly gentleman, saying he understood Vietnam vets didn't receive the same treatment the young men were enjoying that day.
That's when the old veteran cried, and at that point, so did almost everyone I've heard from who read the story.
What strikes me as remarkable is the unique and deep bond those who've fought in our nation's wars share. It matters not their age, rank or even branch of service. When it comes to fighting for our country, these men and women are tied in a sense of brotherhood, or sisterhood as the case may be.
This was apparent recently when I observed two young military men meet for the first time at a social gathering. When the subject of service came up, both were eager to share stories of their own overseas deployment.
And while there must certainly be exceptions, I've never personally come across anyone in the military resenting service or in any way critical of the war effort, not even when it comes to what many Americans now consider a mess in Iraq. I also know military reservists who, for various reasons since 9/11, have been called upon to leave their families and much higher-paying jobs for active duty. They do it without complaining, for it is out of that deep sense of duty they serve.
With the uncertainties in Iraq, an escalating number of Americans demanding a timely exit plan and a new political force taking the House and Senate, we are likely to see changes in how the overall war on terror is fought.
But what's comforting to know is there's a young generation of people like Sanders who boldly stand ready to leave home for the front lines, as we respectfully remember the many having already paid the ultimate price.
As Sanders shared with us: Semper Fidelis, the motto of the United States Marine Corps., which is Latin for "always faithful" to God, country, family and the Corps.
"To those who've fought for it, freedom has a taste that the rest will never know."
Shanna Sissom is city editor of the Reporter-Telegram. She can be reached at shanna@mrt.com
That's when the old veteran cried......
"To those who've fought for it, freedom has a taste that the rest will never know."
This was a nice story I wanted to share....for all our vets. Thank you to each one of you.
Sadly we need more people to appreciate what these heroes are doing for all of us, and how important the mission there is.
We need more war on terror veterans to become vocal about their support for democracy and their mission there.
Only the critical comments ever reach Joe and Jane Swingvote.
Nice story,
Had trouble with the link.
May be my fault.
This makes makes you proud to be a Real American
It also makes the screen go blurry..I am so grateful to our veterans, old and new..and to all who serve in our armed forces.
I am very proud to be an American, a Real American.
It happens.
Ah yes, War stories
I'd tell you about it, but you wouldn't understand - it's a Vet thing.... (bumper sticker)
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