Veteran's day

[cassidyta]

I posted something similar last year, but for all of our veteran's regardless of generation or branch of service.

Every year around this time, I am often thanked for my service. I don't mean to appear unappreciative when I do not know how to respond. Simply put, I really don’t know what to say.
I have thrust out my chest during the National Anthem.
I have fallen to my knees during Taps.
I have seen the sunrise over one ocean and the same day see it set on another.
I have shed both blood and tears in places I could barely pronounce.
I have celebrated Christmas in triple digit temperatures and the 4th of July in snow.
I have defended our flag and an American’s right to burn it.
I have thrown punches at members of our armed forces and then quickly covered their back when a foreign local tried to do the same.
I have very adamantly disagreed with the mission and still gave 100% to ensure that it was a success.
I have prayed with a Mormon, Muslim, Jehovah’s Witness, Catholic, Atheist, and Baptist at the same time.
I have seen the cost of freedom.
I have learned that Honor, Courage and Commitment are more than words to me.
When it is all said and done, the only answer I can truly give is, “The pleasure was all mine”