Do you ever wonder if they are truly thankful for your service?

CH (MAJ) William Beaver — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 15:29:31 -0400

Ever shake your head in disbelief in looking at the news? Ever change the station in disgust over what you hear? Ever been rejected or ridiculed because of your service to your country? Ever look around and wonder if your fellow Americans truly appreciate or understand why you do or did what you do or did? When they wave their flags and then later act in ways that leave you wondering, do you ever question if they truly appreciate your service? Who did you serve? Them? Your buddies? Your family? Yourself? Your country? Define country.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 2 at 2015 3:38 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 15:38:07 -0400

Wow! Yes to almost all of the above. I feel somewhat seperated from the fold. I try to respond with an educated answer or solution when this occurs. I often wonder if it's lack of understanding or education about the Military or for fear that someone will get angry for asking. Great thought provoking question for sure!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 2 at 2015 3:56 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 15:56:29 -0400

Not all. Some say it because they truly mean it. Others say it because they feel socially obligated.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Jul 2 at 2015 4:23 PM

Capt Mark Strobl — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 16:23:11 -0400

I used to look at some folks with a cynical eye... didn't think they appreciated what they had & what sacrifices were made for their liberties. But as I've grown longer in the tooth, I stopped caring what others appreciated, or didn't appreciate. I find solace in knowing that they do, in fact, have those liberties. That's enough for me.

Response by Cpl Jeff N. made Jul 2 at 2015 4:49 PM

Cpl Jeff N. — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 16:49:29 -0400

I didn't really do it for them. I didn't serve at a time when anyone was thanked for their service which didn't bother me because that was just how it was. I think it is awkward to have people thank me for something I didn't really do for them, specifically. I get a thank you occasionally, I think some do it because they think they should, some are probably sincere, it has really become almost a canned response when people find out you served.

Response by SSgt Khanh Pham made Aug 6 at 2015 6:37 PM

SSgt Khanh Pham — Thu, 06 Aug 2015 18:37:11 -0400

You can stop wondering.

I know they are not thankful for your service. Do it anyway though.
there are a lot of little stuff that ruff off that your services are not really that important. I shouldnt have to back this statement up with anything.

I came back from oversea with nothing (my fault really for poor planning). I ask my neighbor for over 7 years for help. He's one of the manager of a market making 6figures. Hey Joe, do you know anyone that can use my help? I spent 11 years serving the USAF, I need an introduction to some of your friend who may need help. Guess what he said? I am sorry, but I dont really know you.

To think I sacrificed my livelihood so he can live in peace making his 6 figures. If he gets shot up in front of me, should I save his butt? Or should I tell him that I dont really know him, and I wouldnt put my life out there for his sake.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Jan 11 at 2017 1:43 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 13:43:53 -0500

Nope. It is not my problem but theirs. I am happy when they are but not my problem if they are not.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 11 at 2017 2:00 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 14:00:46 -0500

As another has said I did not serve for thank yous. But, they are nice to get anyway. I often answer please keep paying your taxes so my retirement checks keep coming. Most people laugh ans say they will.