Say Thanks

It does indeed make a difference. I've had bar tabs paid for, and meals as well, by anonymous strangers, but nothing beats a simple thank-you.

Never got one when I was in California, but I've had plenty out here. You're right, you remember every one.

I'm finally getting used to receiving the thanks from random people I run into when I'm in uniform. Usually I just return their thanks.

I have to admit that I often feel like I should be throwing myself on the floor and like Wayne & Garth from Wayne's World, saalaming while crying, "I'm not worthy, I'm not worthy, I suck!"

Because when it comes right down to it... I've served, but I've never done anything aside climbing aboard a variety of C5's that could be considered life-risking. REMF really does define the MOS's I've held.

They thank me for what I do, and I thank them for the support. Heard too many tales when there wasn't support. Makes me appreciative.

Regards,

Jake '88

A couple of months ago I was checking out of a hotel. I still keep my hair cut in what we used to refer to as a Colonel special and was wearing my really cool Army T-shirt. A little old lady also came down to check out and being a gentleman (occasionally) I let her go first. She kept turning around looking at me and eventually said "Thank you for your service" I've been out since '91 so it felt like I was getting credit for what you guys are doing today and I replied "Thank you but I've been out for quite some time" She kindly replied that I had served so I still deserve thanks.

The next part made me feel even less like I deserved any thanks. She then told me how she still couldn't forgive Emperor Hirohito for screwing up her Senior year of high school and later her fiance was killed fighting in the Pacific....boy I'm glad I let her go in front of me. And I thanked her, hell I just gave up a little time, she gave up her future husband.

It's one of my greatest thrills to see our service people in uniform passing through the airports. There's not a celebrity out there, or a world leader, who thrill me more than seeing our military. They are my heroes, from the lowliest to the highest ranking. What a privilege to have lived in history during this amazing time and observed the astonishing accomplishments of our Warrior Citizens. I say thank you now to each of you.

I served on a destroyer in the mid 80's, and it was not uncommon to be looked at differently than others in the community (sailors and dogs keep off the grass). The only place where we were recommended to wear a uniform was in Australia, anywhere else we were a target, even in CONUS. I'm glad our military is getting the appreciation it deserves. We were not thanked for our service, but I thank all of you for yours.