Happy Veterans Day!

Just a quick note to say thank you to all my fellow veterans.  

A couple of days ago I was out stretching my legs with a couple of coworkers.  It was cold outside so we walked from one end of the office building to the other and as we passed the main entrance on our way back, I noticed an elderly gentleman slowly walking into the lobby with a cane.  Then I saw his hat that read "World War II Veteran".  

I don't generally do this, but something told me to walk up to him and say hi.  Maybe it was because Veterans Day was just a couple of days away or maybe it was because he reminded me of the two WW II veterans we lost recently in our church, but without hesitating I walked up to him and said in a loud voice "Happy Veterans Day!"

I noticed his shiny E-6 rank on the brim of his hat as he looked up at me and said "What?"  I had to say it again and reminded him that it was just a couple days away.  Then I thanked him for his service and he smiled.  There are fewer WW II vets left every day.  We need to honor them and learn from them before they are all gone.

While Veterans Day was originally Armistice Day and commemorated World War I, it continues to be (from VA.gov) "A celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good".