Veterans Day approaches and we remember the men and women serving our nation. We remember those who have proudly worn the uniform of our armed services. Most of us who have enlisted in the service or, as in my day, were drafted, remember the days and years of their service with pride. Whether serving in peace time or during hostile events, each person was on call to put their lives on the line for our freedom and for protection of our land and people.

Today, we see the returning veterans from Irag and Afghanistan. The flag is raised and the tributes are displayed for all to see. But many have forgotten the service of our veterans who served in battle during Korea and Viet Nam. These solders and sailors returned without tributes and many returned to contempt.

Recently, I went to the Cole’s Transportation Museum in Bangor, Maine. I was presented with a walking stick that had the service ribbon for Viet Nam on the handle. Along with that, I received a thank you for my service. It was one of the few that I have received in 40 plus years since I left the service. That thank you ripped a hole in my heart with emotion that I was not anticipating and left me humbled with gratitude.

Today’s service families have the ability to communicate by e-mail, cell phones, and skype. They are overseas, but able to have frequent contact. I remember in the 1960s that we got the occasional letter and during my 13 months away, I got to make a telephone call from Japan. On Veterans Day, we give tributes to those in or who have been in the service to show that they are each deserving of praise and appreciated.

Let us also remember the anguish of the families which had their sons and daughters in harm’s way. I think of my mother with three sons in Viet Nam and a fourth in Germany. I remember that when I was the last to return home I surprised her, but the stress erupted within her and she had a heart attack when she saw me at her place of work.

Veterans Day is for remembering the willing, the brave, and the ones who sacrificed. Praise God that we have a few who are willing to stand up for freedom and to protect our nation’s people. Don’t be bashful; if you see a Veteran, extend your hand and say thank you. Without the men and women of our armed services, we might not have the privilege of being a free nation and could be speaking a different language. God Bless all who serve or have served.

Roger Belanger

US Navy PH2 and US Coast Guard Reserve Ltjg


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