Dear Abby: Veteran rubbed the wrong way by the expression: ‘Thank you for your service’

al.com ^ | Sept. 22, 2019 | Abigail Van Buren

[bgill]

DEAR ABBY: I am a veteran, and something gnaws at me every time I hear it. It’s the expression, “Thank you for your service.” Having lived through the ’60s and ’70s, I remember all too well seeing many soldiers bad-mouthed and worse during those times. Since 9/11 many of the same people who were critical of us then are now thanking us. It rings hollow to many of the vets I have talked to. We did our job, some to the ultimate level. We never asked for thanks, and we still don’t. We respect the rights given to those who wish to abuse them because we believe in them. Some of us even died so all could enjoy these rights. If a person truly wants to thank a vet, DO something for him or her instead of just offering lip service. Cut their grass, offer to help carry in their groceries, etc. While words are appreciated at times, hearing them too often becomes hollow. Showing appreciation is always welcome. -- A VETERAN IN THE MIDWEST

[Manly Warrior]

CMF11,infantry, and 21,cbt engr officer, not 32yrs of service, only 23 and change....

Blessings.

[Chainmail]

Four years enlisted Marine (failed Truck Driver, then 105mm Cannoneer, then artillery Scout with Echo Company 2/1) - and after the hospital, .50 Caliber machine gun from the right window of a CH-46.

Then Artillery Officer, eventually commanding a 155mm battalion. 27 years, total..

Blessings, Chainmail

[MortMan]

As a Desert Storm veteran, I go out of my way to thank those I see in a current uniform, as well as those I see proclaiming their prior service. It’s not all cliche, and it’s not all thoughtless.

[manc]

Yet you are the one who whines when I mentioned those who issue bed sheets do not get the same respect as those on the front lines in harms way who served for their country, not for the freebies and a easy life.