Asking Veterans About Their Service Is Far Better Than Thanking Them For It

I'm a civilian,although widow of marine pilot...I usually hesitate to say."Thank you for your service",but I would like to acknowledge my respect....what to say ?

Excellent! Not to mention, if you worked hard and studied, the wherewithal to be succeed in the civilian world. Would have liked more like you in my division with your attitude.

I made board 4 times in a row before I retired. I was physically worn out by that point, and ready for something else. The year I retired from the hospital, 25 of my fellow 1st Classes did the same. 520 years of experience was gone in 6 months from that place. That had to have had an effect. I would have loved to make Chief, but I was too late in my career to see that happen. I still wouldn't change anything, and I still mentor a junior Sailor even now nearly 6 years retired. I enjoy the mentoring part, and the ability to answer some of her tough questions that her chain sometimes leaves her hanging with.