3 Things Veterans Think About On Memorial Day

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Sun, 25 May 2014 08:39:34 -0400

For those of us who have worn the military uniform, Memorial Day reminds us of the things we’ve fought for, those we’ve lost, and the impact our efforts may have had on the people we meant to serve, and the missions we meant to complete.

Memorial Day is a holiday that should be appreciated by everyone, but I don’t fault those who don’t pay the day’s significance the attention it deserves. This is because Memorial Day is only truly felt by the military community; our emotions are authentic and personal, and are difficult to sufficiently explain to someone outside the military space. It’s just not possible for them to relive experiences they’ve never had or reflect on things their eyes have never seen. As veterans, we can’t fault them for that.

I spent 5 years in the Army and just turned 30 in February. Millions before me served longer than I did, and all of us have our own private set of good and bad memories from the service. I served 15 months in Iraq, came home, left the Army in 2011, went to school, and now spend my days as a civilian.

Along the way, I’ve kept in touch with old military friends and made new ones. We don’t discuss the military as much as you might think. But as a day like Memorial Day approaches, I’ve come to realize that despite our diverse military experiences, our hearts and minds spend time reflecting on three themes, which I’ll touch on below.

First, as I sit quietly, a flood of memories -- even the smallest ones -- somehow begin to resurface en masse: the day I commissioned into the Army, my first patrol in Iraq, training exercises, epic pranks my Soldiers played on me, and then others I’d like to forget.

In the 3 years since I left the military, I’ve been unable to sufficiently ‘translate’ the personal meaning of these experiences for non-veterans. But I believe that’s the way it’s supposed to be. Those who also served will understand my stories well, yet in their own way -- through the lens of their own military experiences. This is why we can connect so well with one another. This is also why veterans don’t talk about it very much outside of our own circles.

Second, I think about my old military friends and how they’ve been doing since we got back from Iraq. I was fortunate to serve alongside incredible people. I wonder what they’re doing now -- how are they holding up? Are they dads (or moms) now? Do they ever think about our time in Iraq? On Memorial Day I wonder where life has taken all of them, and wish them well.

Third, I wonder whether the things we all did in Iraq are going to achieve what our superiors hoped they would. Thousands of service members laid down their lives in the name of completing some mission on some day, in some village half a world away -- for local families whose names they probably never knew. If America’s long-term vision for Iraq (and Afghanistan) is not achieved in the coming years, then will these heroes’ sacrifices still be meaningful for the locals whose lives they touched? Will they be forgotten?

So as I reflect this Memorial Day, I wish all veterans and their families well. Especially those who are wearing the military uniform right now. As for those who I served with and lost touch with, my heart hopes they’ve found their way forward regardless of the path they have chosen. I hope on the 26th, their families and friends will give them an extra long hug, an extra long phone call, and an extra firm handshake of thanks.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made May 25 at 2014 9:44 AM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Sun, 25 May 2014 09:44:05 -0400

Well said!

1. My brothers and sisters standing watch - having been there and done that I appreciate what they continue to do.

2. The past - not just military but everything in my life, in history (I'm a huge history buff) and "How did we get here?"

3. The future - How much longer until our civilian leadership gets it right, "Where are we going?". What will my children be in for?

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made May 25 at 2014 9:48 AM

LTC Jason Strickland — Sun, 25 May 2014 09:48:31 -0400

Aaron,
Well written, well spoken, well intended. Well done! You have appropriately captured what many a veteran thinks/experiences/ponders on a daily basis. Our community is just that - a community of people who have served. We share a common bond that can only be penetrated if you have those same experiences.

Response by SSG Richard Stevens made May 25 at 2014 7:48 PM

SSG Richard Stevens — Sun, 25 May 2014 19:48:04 -0400

Thank you very much. And I stand behind you one hundred percent thank you for your service

Response by COL Bowman Olds made May 25 at 2014 7:53 PM

COL Bowman Olds — Sun, 25 May 2014 19:53:55 -0400

I will spend Memorial Day at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. As I touch The Wall I will talk to my comrades-in-arms and validate those promises we made to each other.

Response by LTC Patrick Walters made May 25 at 2014 8:00 PM

LTC Patrick Walters — Sun, 25 May 2014 20:00:26 -0400

Correct.

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made May 25 at 2014 8:05 PM

SGT Craig Northacker — Sun, 25 May 2014 20:05:10 -0400

One of the most meaningful points in time was when another vet extended his hand to me and told me welcome home. I have just hooked up with an old buddy-the cathartic feeling of having my team back, along with another vet who was 5th Group in VN, gives us the sense of team and family none of us has had since we left the military-for me close to 40 years. It is a treasure for us all.

You are absolutely correct-there is no way to explain what happens in the military - on so many levels. I gave up-it just made me frustrated and the others looking at me like I was nuts. And sometimes I am, but that is another story.

I wish you all well this weekend. I have learned to use my time to help other veterans and their families - to take care of them for those we left behind. That has become my mission and spiritual calling. I leave religion out of it.

Response by Sgt Christopher Collins made May 25 at 2014 8:17 PM

Sgt Christopher Collins — Sun, 25 May 2014 20:17:12 -0400

I served 4 years in the USAF and wish I had stated in longer. I cherish Memorial Day because those before, sacrifice all.

Response by MCPO Stephen McGeady made May 25 at 2014 8:19 PM

MCPO Stephen McGeady — Sun, 25 May 2014 20:19:27 -0400

Going to the Intrepid in NYC On the 26th,for the Memorial day Service.After that Going to Board the USS Cole,Here In the City for Fleet Week. Later on in the day down to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Lower Manhattan. There My Brothers and Sisters will Hand Salute all The Brave Warriors at the Final Rally Point.Honored to call everyone on this site My Brother,and My Sister. Be well.

Response by LTC Christopher Sands made May 25 at 2014 8:21 PM

LTC Christopher Sands — Sun, 25 May 2014 20:21:20 -0400

It is not only felt by Military community. It is felt most keenly by the Gold Star families.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2014 8:37 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 25 May 2014 20:37:18 -0400

HUA - Heard - Understood - Acknowledged - Good job Captain - As a retired old guy - Field Grade - I'm thinking you should have stayed in longer!!

Response by SFC Clark Adams made May 25 at 2014 8:58 PM

SFC Clark Adams — Sun, 25 May 2014 20:58:01 -0400

Not original thoughts and I'm sure you have seen them before, but they sum up my feeling very well.

"We few, we happy few, we band of brothers. For he today that sheds his
blood with me, Shall be my brother; be ne'er so vile, This day shall gentle
his condition. And gentlemen in England now abed, Shall think themselves
accursed they were not here, And hold their manhood's cheap whiles any
speaks, That fought with us upon Saint Crispin's day."
- William Shakespeare ("King Henry V")

"From now until the end of the world, we and it shall be remembered.
We few, we Band of Brothers.
For he who sheds his blood with me shall be my brother."
- William Shakespeare ("King Henry V")

I do believe we all somehow feel this way.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2014 9:40 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 25 May 2014 21:40:40 -0400

Before serving I never understood what Memorial Day was, In school I was led to believe it was for our founding fathers to show respect for what they dreamt and built. My Dad being a Vietnam veteran tried to explained it to me but it didn't really make sense until after I joined, really not til after the first soldier lost did I truly understand. Every Memorial Day is now spent remembering each solider I knew for the laughter, and the good times we had prior to their deaths. It isn't a picnic or grand party it is spent to remember those who didn't get that hug and welcome home when they stepped off the plane.

RIP Our Fallen Soldiers you are Gone but Never Forgotten.

I was a civilian, trying to explain this to someone who really does not get I will always just see this day as a free day off from work.

Response by LTC Kenneth Spielvogel made May 25 at 2014 9:42 PM

LTC Kenneth Spielvogel — Sun, 25 May 2014 21:42:25 -0400

CPT K:

Great writing and I feel the same as you so eloquently wrote it. I think of my battle buddy each and everyday I breathe and no one can ever understand our bond. I served for 28 years and God has blessed me to continue serving by placing me as a Senior Army Instructor teaching Army JROTC in South FL. Being blessed to shepherd the souls of young students each and every day is so remarkable. May God bless you and your family and for all those men and women who have served our great nation and especially for the families of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for all of us, hooah!
Very Respectfully,

LTC (USA, Ret) Ken Spielvogel

Response by SSG Scott Sheldon made May 25 at 2014 9:49 PM

SSG Scott Sheldon — Sun, 25 May 2014 21:49:18 -0400

Sir, nicely worded. I have spent all of my adult life in one uniform or another, that is 30 years this month, and I can say that our families, especially our immediate families are in our community, as are those who are also sworn to protect our communities. I have carried a civilian badge for 19 of those 30 years, and my friends in the First Responder, Fire and LE community feel this day as well as those of us who are military veterans. Someone else also posted about our survivors. They feel this day as significantly as do those of us who have shared the experiences in combat.

Response by SFC Dennis Leber made May 25 at 2014 9:58 PM

SFC Dennis Leber — Sun, 25 May 2014 21:58:19 -0400

Simply put, Thanks for sharing this

Response by PO3 Ricky Smith made May 25 at 2014 10:34 PM

PO3 Ricky Smith — Sun, 25 May 2014 22:34:53 -0400

Well said and hope all veterans and service men and women have a safe Veterans Day in their honor.

Response by SGT Ronald Audas made May 25 at 2014 11:08 PM

SGT Ronald Audas — Sun, 25 May 2014 23:08:31 -0400

Well said Aaron; Today ,we honor the fallen. Those that never quit,and fought to the last breath.Many who have never made the trip back home.Those that lie in a foreign land as a constant reminder that America and Her Allies were there when needed.It was understood that we would endure the hardships of being away from home and loved ones.This to ensure we would not have to bring war torn damage to this,our beautiful America.Lets not ever forget this ultimate commitment,and to those that carry on this brave endeavor.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2014 2:56 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 May 2014 02:56:51 -0400

Well said and thank you for your service! And for all that you have continued to do in building this place for all service members, past and present, to come together.

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made May 26 at 2014 5:53 AM

1SG Michael Blount — Mon, 26 May 2014 05:53:33 -0400

After reading these posts, I believe this is becoming an e-Wall for the military.

Response by 1SG Henry Yates made May 26 at 2014 6:04 AM

1SG Henry Yates — Mon, 26 May 2014 06:04:07 -0400

I'll always remember...

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made May 26 at 2014 6:38 AM

1SG Michael Blount — Mon, 26 May 2014 06:38:55 -0400

Sir - only FIVE years? C'mon! I was just getting broken in by then! Only kidding. I likely speak for many when I express my thanks for you putting up Rally Point. It really does scratch the itch.

Response by CSM Guy R. Niles made May 26 at 2014 7:16 AM

CSM Guy R. Niles — Mon, 26 May 2014 07:16:19 -0400

Many of you may see many posts just like this; however, it is necessary as much of America has forgotten its core and as a result has lost or lacks focus in the "Big Picture". Memorial Day is much more than a Three-Day Weekend and a Cookout, much more. Much more that communities that sponsor parades and speeches, much more. Some of those parades and other gatherings might even take place or pause on or near local Memorials. That is where we, as people and members of communities get nearer to the actual essence of this Day, Memorial Day (Decoration Day). Honoring and remembering those that died on domestic or foreign battlefields to preserve our rights and way of life as individuals and as the American People. Those whose branch of family lineage ceased to extend forward in time to preserve something near and dear to them. Remember our honored fallen. Those that have served and fought in our conflicts and tasted the tinged sweat and blood of their efforts, smelled those smells of cordite, blood, death, etc.., and experienced near death encounters know the agony of why them and not me?! Those that know do know that we fight for one another. The ideal is God, Duty, Honor, Country, Mom and Apple Pie, etc.... Grandiose yes; however myopic. We fight protecting one another so that one has a better chance of returning home to their particular loved ones. Some, unfortunately succumb to their aims and missions, to protect what they Love! Remember our Fallen! I and many others do this day and everyday. Remember those no longer here, Our Honored Fallen!!! PFC Charlie Walker, SSG Ed Kutz, SSG Ken Gentry (all 4-7 Cav, 3AD, DS/DS), CSM Eric F. Cooke (1st Bde, 1AD, OIF I), and countless others. I'll see you at Fiddler's Green!

Should someone consider a post, post not a thanks. Post about our Honored Fallen!!! (Retired member of the less than 1%)

I think of many things everyday, today, though, it will be centered on those sitting around the numerous campfires at Fiddler's Green sipping on their canteens!!! Garry Owen Brothers and Sisters, Seventh First!

Guy Richard Niles, CSM(R), United States Cavalry

Response by 1SG Steven Stankovich made May 26 at 2014 7:49 AM

1SG Steven Stankovich — Mon, 26 May 2014 07:49:56 -0400

Well said sir. We all reflect in our own way. Whether that way is going to a cemetery to pay respects, or flipping through a photo album of units' past, or sitting on the porch and remembering a friend who did not make it home, whatever the means that you select, take some time and do so. It is not only important to reflect to keep memories and friends alive, but it is also good for yourself to remember and reflect.

Response by MSG Dan Foster made May 26 at 2014 8:30 AM

MSG Dan Foster — Mon, 26 May 2014 08:30:53 -0400

As stated many times, those who haven’t served don’t have that special connection we as veterans have with our country, and that is their loss. I placed American Flags on the graves of veteran family and friends this weekend. As a retired veteran I don’t expect anyone to thank me on this special day. I see Memorial Day as a day to honor those who gave their life for their country and to honor those who served and are now departed. To the families of these brave souls I say “Thank You”.

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made May 26 at 2014 8:49 AM

Cpl Glynis Sakowicz — Mon, 26 May 2014 08:49:03 -0400

Well said, and thank you for creating Rally Point. In some ways, having a place where we can 'commune' with each other is like a really large group therapy!
I can't begin to tell you the times I have been outraged by someone casually saying some comment in passing, leaving me staring after them, forming up all sorts of come-back lines that I WISH I'd thought of earlier, thinking that 'no one will ever understand why we do what we do, or why we choose to be what we are,' and then I find a note in my in-box saying someone commented or voted up on a comment... someone who KNOWS, and I have this mental sigh of relief, remembering that there ARE people who know, and there they are.
Sometimes, I think, for women veterans its harder, because we are the ones who are supposed to be gentle and motherly... things that just don't go with uniformns and rifle range scores. I've had potential employers tell me, "Well, I don't think you will be a good fit here... we're looking for someone more... in keeping with our views..." as if, because I can actually hit something I aim at with a weapon, or rattle off the General Orders, I'd be less of an employee, and I digress... sorry!
What I mean, is that I thank you for giving us a place to remember that we aren't weird or different, and we still fit in somewhere.

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made May 26 at 2014 8:56 AM

COL Vincent Stoneking — Mon, 26 May 2014 08:56:21 -0400

No sacrifice is ever meaningless.

For whatever reason, on a given day, that Soldier/Sailor/Airman/Marine raised their right hand and gave their country a blank check. I don't know that everybody gets the stunning, absolute nature of that act. I don't know the sincerity of the individual when they raised their hand. They may well have had "mental reservation" or "purpose of evasion." In any case, they committed.

At some later time, at some other place, they were asked to keep their word. On Memorial Day, we focus on those who had that blank check stamped "paid in full." On other days, we focus on those who paid some lesser amount. Maybe literally "an arm and a leg". Maybe night terrors or an inability to tolerate loud noises. Maybe a marriage that fell apart on deployment, or upon return.

Bottom line:
Their country asked for commitment.
They gave it. Then they kept their word.

The war might (or might not) be stupid, the generals might (or might not) be idiots, the politicians might (or might not) be #@$^&!@, the mission may (or may not) have been accomplished. Those are all interesting topics in their own right, for another day.

However, Keeping your word is never meaningless. Following through on your commitments is never meaningless. It is the definition of Honor and Integrity.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2014 9:42 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 May 2014 09:42:02 -0400

Sir, very well said. I can't add anything else.

Response by MGySgt Rich Zahn made May 26 at 2014 9:50 AM

MGySgt Rich Zahn — Mon, 26 May 2014 09:50:05 -0400

Strength and Honor my friends..

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made May 26 at 2014 10:16 AM

Capt Brandon Charters — Mon, 26 May 2014 10:16:18 -0400

Aaron - What a great tribute and honor to all those no longer with us. Missing my recently passed Father and USAF patriot on this day, I can still remember the morning when he received your 2013 'Veterans Day Call'. You explained to him that it was customary in the Army to call one veteran that was the most inspirational influence on their life that year. Having beaten cancer yourself, your call and your story inspired my Dad to push on in the coming months and face some very difficult treatments with strength and honor. I'll always be grateful for this and I wish the best Memorial Day to you and our military family here. In my father's words, "Keep your airspeed up Aaron." Thank you & God Bless.

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made May 26 at 2014 1:16 PM

CMDCM Gene Treants — Mon, 26 May 2014 13:16:37 -0400

Being Navy and serving mostly in non-combat areas of the world, it was harder for me to really relate to some of the things others have seen and done. That is until my first loss overseas. We were in Thailand on R&R after a long deployment in the Indian Ocean. Five ships of the Squadron were at anchor and sending Liberty ashore. We were going to spend almost a week in port having fun and even meeting some of the wives. Some went to Bangkok and explored the country.

One of our Mess Management Specialists on the ship I was assigned to was careless when he crossed the street and was hit by a taxi. As a result he was killed. I was the Squadron Career Counselor and was tasked to act as the Grief Counselor for the crew of the Ship, A duty I was prepared for, but poorly. Mostly this was OJT and I learned a lot about the role.

One thing I will never forget is the memorial service conducted by the Squadron Chaplin after we got underway. All Hands, not involved in running the ship mustered on the fantail. During the Service, the crew sung "Eternal Father." Ever since the I have not been able to hear or sing it without being taken back to this moment in time. As the deck rolled under us, 100 men sang and cried.

That was at the 10 year point of my career. Since then, I have lost many other Sailors and a few marines I knew. None however had a bigger impact than this first loss. On Memorial Day I remember him and all of my other Brothers. Then I reflect on my family, my father and Uncles who also served and are all gone now, and finally on all of our other Brothers in Arms. Thank you all for your service.

Response by Cpl Gerald Williams made May 26 at 2014 3:08 PM

Cpl Gerald Williams — Mon, 26 May 2014 15:08:15 -0400

When I read this, I immediately thought back on my service and training while enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. The life lessons that were learned and the many wonderful people that I came in contact with, I will never forget the bonds that were created. They will forever impact every aspect of my life; no matter what I do or how for we are apart...those who I have served with and some whom I have lost, are always in my prayers and thoughts. There is also a special life bond created when you serve in a War with people, you become Family!! This is the significance of all Military Holidays, especially Memorial Day....The Ultimate Sacrifice...some gave limbs, others gave their life...and for that I am truly grateful!!!

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2014 3:14 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 May 2014 15:14:41 -0400

CPT Kletzing,

Your words are so eloquent and particularly apropos to our feelings today.

I reflect on memories of our brothers and sisters injured, wounded, burned, captured, tortured, or killed on so many public and secret missions abroad.

I touch the wall and pray for those we could not save. I visit with our men and women in arlington to pray for so many family members, particularly our young children who must now find their own ways through the world.

I wonder what happened and pray for military and civilian colleagues who suffered and died on classified missions in support of our national interests in so many places around the world honored by stars on yet another wall.

Warmest Regards, Sandy

Response by MCPO Stephen McGeady made May 26 at 2014 8:48 PM

MCPO Stephen McGeady — Mon, 26 May 2014 20:48:51 -0400

I will Brother Got some pics of some of my Vet Friends aboard the Intrepid in NYC. Will Post them tomorrow. Great day meeting all the Veterans and Active Duty Marines and Sailors. Great Day to be an American.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made May 26 at 2014 9:22 PM

SPC Charles Brown — Mon, 26 May 2014 21:22:27 -0400

I found this picture, and it seems to fit really well here. Hope you don't mind me sharing it.

Response by SGT Shon D. Hill made May 26 at 2014 9:57 PM

SGT Shon D. Hill — Mon, 26 May 2014 21:57:31 -0400

Excellent personal story and discussion of Memorial Day, I couldn't agree more! Thank you and Dominic and Co-founder for this site, a great accomplishment :). Shon Hill

Response by MSG(P) Michael Warrick made May 26 at 2014 11:36 PM

MSG(P) Michael Warrick — Mon, 26 May 2014 23:36:18 -0400

Memorial Day is. Day where we should pay respects for those that ultimately paid the price, those that have served or are currently serving. And the families of those in the service or was because they have serve as well on the home front while we were gone. We need to cherish the times we have with our families and friends. May God bless all who have served or are serving !!!

Response by CPL Ramon L. Marrero made May 27 at 2014 9:15 AM

CPL Ramon L. Marrero — Tue, 27 May 2014 09:15:18 -0400

Thank you Sir!

Response by SGT Michelle Griffin-Franks made May 27 at 2014 4:27 PM

SGT Michelle Griffin-Franks — Tue, 27 May 2014 16:27:35 -0400

Thanks for sharing your story I am a Very Proud Female veteran I've traveled the world I know what is too server overseas I lived as a female soldier in Germany from the young age 19-24 I'm proud to be an American

Response by COL Bowman Olds made May 28 at 2014 12:21 PM

COL Bowman Olds — Wed, 28 May 2014 12:21:54 -0400

After spending several hours at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall ceremony on Memorial Day, I would expand the statement "3 Things Veterans Think About On Memorial Day" to all those impacted by what they see on The Wall. As I watched mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, wives, and husbands react to the names of their loved ones on The Wall, the momentoes, photos, and letters left behind, one is struck by the magnitude of their loss. They too need our unending support in whatever form or fashion we can provide.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 28 at 2014 3:02 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 May 2014 15:02:55 -0400

With all due respect, the meaning of Memorial Day is NOT to remember or thank the living.

"The price for this freedom at times has been high, but we have never been unwilling to pay that price." -President Ronald Reagan

Memorial Day stands as a testament of the National consciousness to never forget the lives represented by the enormous number of white marble markers that line and fill the military cemeteries across our nation and abroad.

Reflect instead on our brothers and sisters in arms that have given all. Do not give in to the 'slow fade' that is caused by the commercial fast food world of today.

Gettysburg, Belleau Wood, Bataan, the beaches of Normandy, the Argonne Forest, Guadalcanal,the cane fields of the Phillipines, the 38th parallel, the rice paddies of Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq and untold other places our servicemen and women died and in many cases remain missing.

Sacrifice without remembrance is meaningless. Never forget.

Veterans Day is for thanking the living.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2014 1:22 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 01:22:19 -0400

Memorial day is that and more. Me personally, I look at the day to remember and honor the sacrifices of my fellow brothers and sisters in arms over 6000 and counting. We the lucky ones who served with them in all conflicts have a duty to honor their ultimate sacrifice. As the word memorial emplies. Bottom Line remember them and never forget the cause for which they served and died: Freedom for the oppressed and the defense of this nation.

Response by MCPO Stephen McGeady made Jun 9 at 2014 12:54 PM

MCPO Stephen McGeady — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 12:54:23 -0400

Agree with all my Brothers and sisters on this page. It is true that some civilians have no idea what this day is about.For me This is etched in my mind 24/7. From Vietnam to Beirut to Somalia and every hell hole in Between. Most civilians show respect in the only way they know,By at least remembering. Others think of it as BBQ's and sales events. That's just the way it is. Me I have been Happily married to My wife of 32 yrs,most of that as a Navy wife(25yrs4mos23days.

Response by 1st Lt Padre Dave Poedel made May 29 at 2021 12:47 PM

1st Lt Padre Dave Poedel — Sat, 29 May 2021 12:47:47 -0400

Thank you! Well done, indeed. God bless you as you transition out, a process that has taken me my lifetime so far…..

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2021 1:52 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 29 May 2021 13:52:26 -0400

Many of those who are not counted among those fallen in battle actually died after they were discharged from the service. Veterans living thousands of miles away from the battle and possibly suffering years after they returned home. The Vietnam Veterans had Agent Orange. The veterans of missions in the Gulf Wars and later Iraq-Afghanistan Campaigns in the Middle East produced many post-war trauma victims who died from mental illness and traumatic brain injuries, some of those deaths were tragically self-inflicted. Some died because of disabilities that were never properly diagnosed because the VA was too busy or unable to properly handle their claim. Memorial Day in America is a day for them too. The families of those veterans deserve gold stars.

Response by SCPO Jeff Conz made May 31 at 2021 6:17 AM

SCPO Jeff Conz — Mon, 31 May 2021 06:17:29 -0400

Well written and thoughtful!

Response by CW3 Joseph Ernst Jr made May 31 at 2021 6:35 AM

CW3 Joseph Ernst Jr — Mon, 31 May 2021 06:35:12 -0400

Captain, well said! My thoughts and feeling...

Response by 1SG James Kelly made May 31 at 2021 8:33 AM

1SG James Kelly — Mon, 31 May 2021 08:33:45 -0400

How lucky I was; 23 years.

Response by PVT Pat Morrison made May 31 at 2021 8:41 AM

PVT Pat Morrison — Mon, 31 May 2021 08:41:15 -0400

We are prone to remember the veterans that have served in all of America's wars. But there are many veterans that have served between wars these people also served. If only to keep the continuity of the military.

Response by SGT Ronald Peter made May 31 at 2021 1:22 PM

SGT Ronald Peter — Mon, 31 May 2021 13:22:25 -0400

Well put

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 31 at 2021 4:42 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Mon, 31 May 2021 16:42:19 -0400

Good Call Sir, Thanks

Response by MSgt Mike P. made May 31 at 2021 9:55 PM

MSgt Mike P. — Mon, 31 May 2021 21:55:54 -0400

Very well stated!

Response by CPT Lawrence Cichelli made Jun 1 at 2021 8:06 AM

CPT Lawrence Cichelli — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 08:06:38 -0400

I honor my fallen comrades by participating in Memorial Day events in the Chicago area. I've been asked to play Taps and other bugle calls or patriotic music as an Army Band trumpet player. The only year I missed was last year because of the pandemic. Those that do come out to events really understand the meaning of these events to remember loved ones or friends that gave their all. As long as these people participate in Memorial Day ceremonies, those that gave their all will always be remembered and not have died in vain!

Response by LTJG Sandra Smith made Jun 1 at 2021 11:26 AM

LTJG Sandra Smith — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 11:26:22 -0400

I think about those in my family line who have served from 1776 on up through the Cold War & Vietnam; I think about my HS classmates who went to Vietnam, but came home in body bags, young men, some of whom I'd known since grade school. I think about Mom's friend a sniper shot on her way between the hospital & quarters, in New Guinea, a nurse. I think how disappointed many of those would be, to see the shambles America has become, and wonder how they'd feel about their sacrifices in view of the outcome here. I think about those who intentionally ignore what Memorial day is about, and wonder if they realize at all, they couldn't be enjoying their barbecues BUT for those they're ignoring. And I think about our Creator & how sad all of it must make Him. It's not an happy day...

Response by PFC Stephen Trynosky made Jul 16 at 2021 11:38 AM

PFC Stephen Trynosky — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 11:38:37 -0400

I think of all the 18 year olds who NEVER made 19. I think of the joys I've had in my 74 years that they missed. So, regardless of war, be it 1776, 1863, 1918, 1944, 1952 or 1969 and beyond, they are all "forever 18". As the Brits say, "lest we forget".

Response by SPC David Batterson made Jul 23 at 2021 3:38 PM

SPC David Batterson — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 15:38:38 -0400

I never made it into any combat, nor did I leave the country. But I look back on my Vietnam War era time in the Army, and have to admit it was one unique experience, "flying a big grey desk."

Response by SGT Doug Blanchard made Jul 29 at 2021 3:48 PM

SGT Doug Blanchard — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 15:48:09 -0400

I agree with what you wrote, with the addition in my case, I think back on my family members that served in the military before me. Such as my paternal grandfater who served in the Coast Guard in WW I, my dad who served in WW II and Korea in the Arny, a great uncle who served in WW VII, Korea, 3 tours in Vietnam, all as a Marine, a great nephew that was in Desert Shield/Desert Storm. Alm of which have sinced passed away.
I think about all of my fellow brithers and sisters that served before me, and those that have served after my time. It is a Day of Rememberence.

Response by CPO Jack De Merit made Aug 7 at 2021 3:33 PM

CPO Jack De Merit — Sat, 07 Aug 2021 15:33:27 -0400

I will make this brief. I think primarily of those who did not come back. They gave their last full measure of devotion. With over 100 assignments, I never suffered an injury but I knew far too many who did and are still paying for it today more than 50 years later. I also think about the legacy they have left behind that far too many adults do not understand. And I honor the departed with prayers and visits to the L. A. National Cemetery. I serve as the Chaplain of my Masonic Lodge.