Veterans programs worth attending

What is a veteran?

Webster’s New World College Dictionary defines a veteran as a person “who has served in the armed forces” or an alternative definition is an “old, experienced soldier, especially one who served in time of war.”

My father was a veteran. I have aunts, uncles, cousins who are veterans. I am proud of their service. I am thankful for their service. During Veterans Day and on Memorial Day my thoughts go to those who have served since the Revolutionary War to today.

I realize during the draft period in our nation’s history some served who did not necessarily want to, but for much of our history people have voluntarily served our country in different branches of the military. They have volunteered for various reasons, for love of country, for duty to country, for money and the ability to get a college education and perhaps a myriad of other reasons. But they served, fighting for our freedoms and for our country.

Some served in combat, others served during peacetime or perhaps served, like my father, overseas but not in actual combat. But, again, they did serve.

On Saturday, our nation will honor our veterans and there are several special programs this week honoring our veterans (see a schedule on A6).

I had never been to a Veterans Day program until covering them for newspapers and I am always moved, whether it be through songs from students, the flag disposal ceremony the Legion puts on here each year but most especially when the veterans stand to be recognized and honored at any of these ceremonies.

You see in their eyes the pride of their service, not a sinful pride, but proud of their country, proud to have served in the Army/Air Force/Marine/Navy and/or Coast Guard.

You cannot help but be moved and filled with such appreciation for these brave men and women who have served our country.

We must also be thankful for their families for what they go through when their loved ones serve.

If you have the opportunity to attend one of the services or programs honoring our veterans this week, you should. You will not be disappointed.

To all our area veterans I say thank you for your service; and while it is not “Armed Forces Day” I would also like to say thank you to those who are serving.

I am grateful for all of you who have served and are serving.

(Just a side note to distinguish the holidays to honor our military men and women – Veterans Day honors those who served, Armed Forces Day in May honors those who are serving and Memorial Day in May honors those who have died in military service to the United States of America.)