Dear Source:
Over the years, Americans seem to have taken for granted the freedoms we enjoy in this country. We should never forget the real cost of that freedom. We observe Veteran's Day — a day set aside to remind us of the price of freedom and to honor those who paid the price.
As a medic in Viet Nam in 1969 I was a member of the 85th Medivac team. Our hours were 12 on duty and 12 off with a rare few days as a break. Based near the city of Hue, our responsibilities were to fly in and medivac any wounded. We would attempt to stabilize in an effort to get them to a hospital.
This period of my life I paid no real attention to what I did and did not consider the impact that I may have had on the life's of others that I helped. At that time it was a job.
Today it's a completely different story and the reflecting on this period in my life I consider it to be the most honorable period in my life.
So remember each time you see someone who has served our country say Thank You. Take pride in our veterans and the position that they serve for our country.
That's all most people need, and in most cases it will mean more than any medals they could have been awarded or were awarded.
Two little words that mean a lot,Thank you.
And remember…
It is the veteran, not the preacher, who has protected our freedom of religion.
It is the veteran, not the reporter, who has protected our freedom of the press.
It is the veteran, not the poet, who has protected our freedom of speech.
It is the veteran, not the campus organizer, who has protected our freedom to assemble.
It is the veteran, not the lawyer, who has protected our right to a fair trial.
It is the veteran, not the politician, who has protected our right to vote.
It is the veteran, who salutes the Flag
Larry Boecker
A proud Viet Nam Veteran
St. Thomas
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