MadMup.com

Even if you don’t agree with why wars are fought or with the idea of having a military in the first place, can you at least appreciate people who are willing to die for beliefs they have?

I hope so.

Here’s a site with info on the origins of Veteran’s Day.

My grandpa was in the Army during World War II. I never talked to him about the experience, but it was always one of those things that made me look at him in a different light. He was the kind of man that didn’t seem affected by many things, but I can’t help but think he was affected by his time in the Army. I wonder sometimes how it changed him.

Of course, the world was a different place in the 1940’s. I’m always amazed by stories of how Americans banded together to save iron and energy. And, of course, it was WWII that got women into the workplace, forever changing the landscape.

I digress – Veteran’s Day is a day for honoring veterans from any war: WWII, the Korean War, Vietnam, the Gulf War, Afghanistan, Iraq. It’s expanded, even, to include members of the military in general.

Joining the military was one of those things I always “kinda” thought about doing. It was something I always respected in other people. Whenever I pictured myself in the military, though, I couldn’t picture myself doing very well. I’d be the guy that got beaten by socks full of soap because I caused the whole platoon to have to do extra work because I could only do 15 pushups. I’m at my best when I’m being told what to do, though, so maybe it would’ve worked out.

Anyway, if you know a veteran, take some time out today to let them know you’re thankful for their commitment and their courage.