What's the best response for "thank you for your service"? I like to say this...

No matter how I am feeling at the time, I immediately light up, shake their hand and say thank you for your support. If I have a free second, I will talk to them for a bit. I do this because of one event. When I was returning from R&R going back to Iraq, the entire group was leaving Atlanta Airport. I heard a message across the speaker system say that this group is going back to Iraq. The entire airport stopped and all I could hear were claps and whistles. I have never been so taken aback by the support from our country.

My answer is always, "It is my privilege."

I always say "Thank you for your support"...if they are wearing something the identifies them as a veteran such as a hat I thank them for their service as well

It was my Honor!

Used to get freaked about this one. I did what i did for my own reasons much like most in the military, and it was always strange to me that people were thanking me for my service. It just didn't feel right to me, but i have overcome that to a small degree.

This has always made me feel a little uncomfortable because in my eyes I am just doing my job, but I have learned over the years that a simple "Thank you" and smile works best.

I always say it was my honor. I also tend to thank them for the appreciation. There are not many that will go out and do that. I do every time I see a Veteran or Active Duty member.

I usually say "Thank you for your support and it is greatly appreciated" and if I know they are a veteran I thank them for their service. If they are a Vietnam veteran I welcome them home as well since so many of them never received that when they came home.

I most always respond with a "Thank you. It is my privilege." I do note the few comments here of veterans who do not like your more light-hearted "Thank YOU for paying your taxes" come from earlier eras - where they were not as inundated with the gratitude of the American people as those of us who served in the last 12 years or so. I know it has been (and is) sometimes uncomfortable and certainly overwhelming to be in airports or restaurants while in uniform over the past decade. Perhaps responding with a more humorous "thank you" can make the veteran less uncomfortable. I think the most important thing is that you acknowledge the person thanking you in whatever way that sounds the most appreciative and sincere coming from you.

I honestly say "No problem". It's quick, feels more comfortable than saying "You're welcome", and it ends the uncomfortable feeling I get for being thanked pretty quickly.

The truth "My Pleasure" and brother it truly is most of all looking back!