Veterans from Vietnam & earlier

[Graspher]

What goes through your mind when a stranger says to you - “thanks for your service” ?

No disrespect intended - just curious.

[villagetinker]

From the other side, I never served but I am very thankful for those that did, and when I get the chance I will thank them. I am going to watch the replies, in case my thank you is being misinterpreted.

[Joe V.]

Sometimes I wondered where were these people when I rotated back to the world. Most of the time lately I wonder if people actually mean it or are just being polite. I probably should not feel this way but I do.

[Chatbrat]

Repeat-"It was an honor to serve"--no matter what I did , my time in the submarine service was the most rewarding time of my life, it was the only "job" and or since I was self employed prior to retirement--that I actually enjoyed--never had such a sense of camaraderie

[thelegges]

For those who were met at the airport, with things thrown at them, spit on, no one would hire you because you were in that war. Its a different respect today.

While at Shades, a little girl about 5 or 6 came running up to me, and asked if she could hug me. Her father smiles, I said yes. She whispered my daddy said nobody thanked you when you came home. I just want to hug you and tell you thanks for protecting my family.

Nam Vets are finally getting some honor for defending their country. Most were drafted, some didn’t come home, some are homeless, and then some who came home, but are dying from effect of the war. Those children whose parents serve are taught what our generation returned to.

You rarely hear a Nam Vet speak about the war. But we still believe it was an honor to serve.

Welcome home Brother

[JoMar]

Always appreciate the comment even though I know that those that didn't serve felt differently, and may participated, in the protests in some form. I believe that attitudes can change and maybe reflection has changed their perspective. When I hear it from the Millennial's, Gen Z's and even Gen Alpha's I feel their sincerity since their attitudes didn't need to be changed and hopefully had parents that appreciates the military. If I see active military in restaurants I will usually pick up their tabs as a thank you for their service. A comment that may cause some controversy but I believe there should be mandatory service in our Country, not always military, but something to serve the Country and appreciate the opportunities that are here.....JMO

[vintageogauge]

Always appreciate the comment even though I know that those that didn't serve felt differently, and may participated, in the protests in some form. I believe that attitudes can change and maybe reflection has changed their perspective. When I hear it from the Millennial's, Gen Z's and even Gen Alpha's I feel their sincerity since their attitudes didn't need to be changed and hopefully had parents that appreciates the military. If I see active military in restaurants I will usually pick up their tabs as a thank you for their service. A comment that may cause some controversy but I believe there should be mandatory service in our Country, not always military, but something to serve the Country and appreciate the opportunities that are here.....JMO
Not everyone felt differently. There were those such as myself that wanted to serve but for many different reasons could not. I talked my dad into signing for me when I graduated as I was still only 17 at the time. The recruiter drove 6 of us down to Pittsburg for our physicals, and two of us were not accepted, I was classified 1Y for a heart murmur. It was a sad quiet ride home for the two of us as we were all prepared to leave that day in 1964 and it still bothers me today, a feeling that I wasn't good enough and that I missed a part of life that was common to all of us at that time. The other 4 all made it back safely but I had several friends that did not come home. Even though I respect freedom of speech, I disliked protests back then and still do today. And yes, I thank you all for your service.

[John_W]

For those who were met at the airport, with things thrown at them, spit on, no one would hire you because you were in that war. Its a different respect today...



It hear that a lot, yet I landed at one of the most liberal cities in America, Seattle on December 22, 1971. It was a Friday afternoon, about 3pm I arrived at Sea-Tac Airport and the place was swamped. I found out I could get to Chicago that night or wait until Sunday night, 9pm for an Eastern Flight to Tampa. So I decided to buy a ticket and wait Friday night, all day Saturday and most of the day of Sunday inside the airport.

We had a real menagerie of people. Two planes from Vietnam, two planes from Korea and all of the college students of the state of Washington were there for Christmas break. The guys from Nam were wearing Khakis, no jacket and had a tan, the guys from Korea were wearing winter greens and overcoats and the college students were long hair wearing jeans and sandals and a bunch of pretty college girls added to the mix.

I never heard anyone say anything negative or saw anything. The only contact I had was I went the first night to the USO area and got donuts and a coffee and tried to find a place to sleep but it was packed with guys sleeping everywhere. I basically hung out in the airport of Seattle and I more in amazement of all the people, especially the ladies and even looking at American dollars instead of MPC's was odd.

When I got out of the Army in Savannah, me and friend applied for a switchman's job with Southern Railroad. Out of 80 people applying that day, only myself and my Army friend and two others were hired. I'm not saying that stuff didn't go on, it just never happened where I was. I don't think everyone should be a bad rap, especially when I returned home to St. Petersburg. It was a very conservative city back then, and veterans were treated very fairly.

If I have to show my VA ID for a discount, such as at Walgreens and they say "Thank you for your service", I say "Your Welcome".

[Nucky]

If there a better way to express gratitude with words to anyone who served our country at anytime and their families other than Thank You For Your Service speak up I'm all ears if it's something nice & respectful I'll change what I say.

What goes thru my mind is that I'm in awe of the person I'm thanking. Amazing people who are to be respected.

[ColdNoMore]

The Spitting Image (click here) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Spitting_Image)


The Spitting Image: Myth, Memory and the Legacy of Vietnam (1998) is a book by Vietnam veteran and Sociology professor Jerry Lembcke. The book is an analysis of the widely believed narrative that American soldiers were spat upon and insulted by antiwar protesters upon returning home from the Vietnam War. The book examines the origin of the earliest stories; the popularization of the "spat-upon image" through Hollywood movies and fiction literature, and the role of print news media in perpetuating the now iconic image through which the history of the war and antiwar movement has come to be represented.

Lembcke contrasts the absence of credible evidence of spitting by antiwar activists with the large body of evidence showing a mutually supportive, empathetic relationship between veterans and antiwar forces.

The book documents the efforts of the Nixon Administration to drive a wedge between military servicemen and the antiwar movement by portraying democratic dissent as betrayal of the troops, effectively redirecting blame for failure in Vietnam onto protesters.

[twoplanekid]

Repeat-"It was an honor to serve"--no matter what I did , my time in the submarine service was the most rewarding time of my life, it was the only "job" and or since I was self employed prior to retirement--that I actually enjoyed--never had such a sense of camaraderie

8th Radio Research Field Station - Phu Bai 1970

VVA Chapter 1036 - Home (https://vva1036.weebly.com/)

[jksturgeon]

as a Vietnam Vet, i appreciate it very much because rather than being honored for threes combat tours of combat duty, was treated very disrespectfully for years. so its very nice to be appreciated for a change. Capt. USAF Navigator

[nhbear]

YES I LIKE TO HEAR IT :coolsmiley::MOJE_whot:

[Cranford61]

Captain, 347th Tactical Fighter Wing, Yokohama AB, Japan, 1970.

[Dave2000]

Served in the Navy 61 to 65, although serving on two aircraft carries I never went to Vietnam, proud of the men and women who did so I try to thank the people who thank me for my service in their honor.

[rhand48]

Marines - 9th Engineer Bn, 1968, Viet Nam

[Donaz1]

I went into the Navy through NAS Jacksonville in February of 1969. I never had to go to Nam but instead flew in P3C anti-submarine aircraft. I do not regret not going into combat. I spent 10 years active and another 15 years in the Reserves.

When I hear the "Thank you for your service" line, I feel somewhat not deserving since I got lucky and did not go to Vietnam. My experience in the Navy was one that I will always cherish. I honor all those that were in "Harms Way" from the war. I have a friend in AZ that lost a leg in the war and is one of the finest men that I have ever met. Thank you for the subject.

[VILLAGER 2011]

I hear it alot.
Usually just nod and smile. Often tempted to say: ..Hey Pal....I am not a hero , we went where we were told to go and did .what we were told to do when we got there.
Jack Thorne
1262nd A.S.U.
US ARMY

[flgolfer]

agreed

[Polar Bear]

...Often tempted to say: ..Hey Pal....I am not a hero , we went where we were told to go and did .what we were told to do when we got there.
Jack Thorne
1262nd A.S.U.
US ARMY
Isn’t that what most military heroes do? :)

[PurpleHeartX5]

As a veteran of three combat tours in Vietnam it is always great to hear someone express their gratitude for my service. What I found difficult over the years was how to respond. Most often I just said "Your Welcome". However, a few years ago my wife suggested that I say "Your Worth It". I have found it quite interesting to see the reactions of those who thanked me. I do believe everyone living in this great nation, past and present, are worth my service.

[collie1228]

Where it really shines, and never seems like a cliche', is when it's said by young people to the veterans on Villages Honor Flight in airports or in Washington, DC. I volunteer an Honor Flight guardian, and it brings tears to my eyes when a young person, or a group of teenagers, comes up to my veteran and one by one shakes his/her hand and express their appreciation. Truly heartwarming. Personally, I'm always a little bit uncomfortable with it when directed toward me, but it's a lot better than it was in the 70's.

[Hplaw]

:bigbowSometimes I wondered where were these people when I rotated back to the world. Most of the time lately I wonder if people actually mean it or are just being polite. I probably should not feel this way but I do.

[Hplaw]

:bigbow:

[Hplaw]

:bigbow:Sometimes I wondered where were these people when I rotated back to the world. Most of the time lately I wonder if people actually mean it or are just being polite. I probably should not feel this way but I do.

[dally1932]

I enjoy being thanked for the year I served in Viet Nam. When I was drafted I was mad that I left a good paying job, but felt honor in serving at my country's request. Looking back, I am proud that I served in the Army for a cause my country felt (at the time) was necessary. I have no regrets, but still get emotional when I visit the Viet Nam Memorial and view the names of the young men and women that were KIA or MIA.

[bilcon]

Semper Fi. Always happy to hear thank you for your service.

[crypto835]

From the other side, I never served but I am very thankful for those that did, and when I get the chance I will thank them. I am going to watch the replies, in case my thank you is being misinterpreted.

I appreciate the thoughtfulness of the person who says that to me. Another way of saying it is to say "I appreciate your service". Sounds almost the same but it also makes it a bit more personal, a one on one.

"With age comes wisdom if one pays attention to learning it."

[ladybugsmom]

Dear Sir,
I was of the Vietnam era and had friends drafted. I hated what you all had to go through, and admired what you did. Myself and many others stood in awe of your service. I felt so useless being home as a girl, while you al suffered terrible things over there. To this day I get teary-eyed when seeing a Vietnam Veteran, or hear stories of the trials you endured. Please know we are not all like this folks you speak of. Thank you with our whole beings for serving our country.

[sterlingcnslts]

I appreciate the comment very much, especially since I served during VietNam and we did not get much respect at the time. As a retired Navy Veteran my reply is always "It was my pleasure to serve"--and I mean it.

[Hplaw]

I too as of the Vietnam era and so many of my classmates were drafted, killed and came home missing limbs and/or with tremendous physical and mental problems. My heart still hurts for each of them and what they went through. I have much respect for each who served but always more for the Vietnam Veterans. It was such a turbulent time and they were in the middle of all of it. I graduated HS in 1967 and went on with my life , while so many friends who went to Vietnam missed that part. I feel the utmost respect for you and any documentary, book or news item about Vietnam still makes me weep for them. Bless them.

[stan the man]

I was just wondering how anybody would know that you were a veteran if they just met you. Or if they just saw you somewhere did you have a hat or a shirt informing the public that you were a veteran. Just wondering as there are many professions and also have put their lives on the line example Police Department fire department border patrol. There are also many professions that save lives like doctors Etc. I usually don't see many of them wearing their hats and shirts although are some. I know this is not true for all veterans. Is it go as a young person I was in a VFW Post with my father and ask him a question about one of the people there. I asked about the guy who is sitting by himself and not involved with the rest of the fellows talk to you about politics and things. My father told me that the guy who sat there by himself not getting involved was one of the fellows that hit the beach at Normandy. Never talked about it never wanted recognition just did his job. Some of the loudmouths we're the guys who handed out underwear at Fort Dix. This is not true for everybody but this is my personal experience I like to thank everybody that served and did their time

[arbajeda]

What I think: "I didn't do it for you."

What I usually say: "It was mostly fun, except for those few moments of stark terror."

What I want to say: "Where was this when I came home."

[Dan Cagle]

Each & everytime I am fortunate enough to hear, "thank you for your service", I am both humbled AND proud to have served . I served four tours of duty in Southeast Asia (SEA) as a B-52 pilot flying over 260 combat missions over South and North Vietnam.

I had a difficult time knowing what to say when the phrase, "thank you for your service" was first used to show appreciation for our men & women who have served this great country. Most of us never expected to have people recognize us in any special way, because we never felt as if we had done anything special......nothing that any other true American would not have done. We were never concerned about the draft because we all felt that we needed to serve this great country in anyway we could for the honor of living in the good ole' US of A.

For those of you who still make the effort of thanking us for our service, please keep it up and know that we appreciate and cherish your kind thoughts.

I believe that the original question that started this post was, What goes through your mind when a stranger says to you - “thanks for your service” ? I don't think that is the question, the question is, "what goes through your mind AFTER a "fellow American" says thanks for serving your country. It makes this ole' body stand a couple of inches taller and puts a big smile on my face. :)

[skyking]

I always appreciate it and thank them. What I think about is how things have changed. Thanking the military and law enforcement is a recent phenomena. I can remember getting frowns and harassment 50 years ago just because I had the give away short haircut.

[santiagobob]

As a Korean War Veteran, I did not endure the negative reaction that Vietnam veterans received when they returned to the U.S. The solders did not start that war or any other war, it's the politicians that are willing to send our young men to fight and die. Many of those same politicians avoided the service by family connections or other various means. One of my proudest days was my trip to Arlington Cemetery on a Honor Flight. Every where we went, people clapped and shook our hands when they learned who we were. Even young school children on field trips stood and applauded as we passed by in wheel chairs. I spent 16 months in Korea, and it " Was an honor to serve".

[Heytubes]

Always appreciated and always respond with a thank you back. Had a couple negative remarks, but nothing that really bothered me as I was just thankful to be back in a first world country with running water and electricity. I was in the boonies most of the time. Don’t even hold any animosity towards those hundreds of thousands that used the system to not have to serve. Great respect for those that went to jail or Canada because of their objections to the war. Peace.

[E Cascade]

I really appreciate reading the postings on this. I am female and was married to an Air Force guy who flew RF-4's over North Viet Nam in 1969. Because he was based in up country Thailand I went over as a civilian and got a job teaching children in an Air America school. It was the most influential year of my life........ seeing guys who made it back to the base every day and never knowing if my husband would return after his flight of the day/night. Anytime I see a Vet I always feel that appreciation for what they did. Folks who don't get out of this country and have to be in hardship places/circumstances miss something.......just my opinion. And thanks with a big hug to each of you who did your share to make this a better planet for all of us.

[Two Bills]

Why would anyone want thanks for their service?
No one ever thanks me for my service.
Why? Because I and most Brits never make a show of it.
Proud of it? You bet!
But. We did our service because that was what was expected of us.
No one thanks my friends who put it all on the line as firefighters. or my cousin who was a policeman.
What is this obsession with all this 'thanks?'
It's rapidly entering the realms of 'Have a nice day,' with in 99.9% of cases, the same insincerity!
JMO.

[Polar Bear]

Why would anyone want thanks for their service?...
Who said anything about the service folks wanting thanks? I think it’s more that other folks want to offer it.

...What is this obsession with all this 'thanks?'
It's rapidly entering the realms of 'Have a nice day,' with in 99.9% of cases, the same insincerity!
JMO.
I’m not so sure those offering the ‘thanks’ would agree with you.

[Two Bills]

Who said anything about the service folks wanting thanks? I think it’s more that other folks want to offer it.


I’m not so sure those offering the ‘thanks’ would agree with you.

If they don't want it, why advertise it?

[Aces4]

Why would anyone want thanks for their service?
No one ever thanks me for my service.
Why? Because I and most Brits never make a show of it.
Proud of it? You bet!
But. We did our service because that was what was expected of us.
No one thanks my friends who put it all on the line as firefighters. or my cousin who was a policeman.
What is this obsession with all this 'thanks?'
It's rapidly entering the realms of 'Have a nice day,' with in 99.9% of cases, the same insincerity!
JMO.

I don’t know, why is Europe still thanking American servicemen for saving their freedom? Why would they be so grateful for liberty????

[vorage]

For those who were met at the airport, with things thrown at them, spit on, no one would hire you because you were in that war. Its a different respect today.

While at Shades, a little girl about 5 or 6 came running up to me, and asked if she could hug me. Her father smiles, I said yes. She whispered my daddy said nobody thanked you when you came home. I just want to hug you and tell you thanks for protecting my family.

Nam Vets are finally getting some honor for defending their country. Most were drafted, some didn’t come home, some are homeless, and then some who came home, but are dying from effect of the war. Those children whose parents serve are taught what our generation returned to.

You rarely hear a Nam Vet speak about the war. But we still believe it was an honor to serve.

Welcome home Brother

I thought it was rather perfunctory and disingenuous until I read your post. Now I realize the misperception was mine, and there are tears in my eyes. My late husband was a Viet Nam Vet and proud of his service. I was always so proud of him. He, like so many others, was gone too soon. My thanks to you all for your service.

[racedaygal]

Why would anyone want thanks for their service?
No one ever thanks me for my service.
Why? Because I and most Brits never make a show of it.
Proud of it? You bet!
But. We did our service because that was what was expected of us.
No one thanks my friends who put it all on the line as firefighters. or my cousin who was a policeman.
What is this obsession with all this 'thanks?'
It's rapidly entering the realms of 'Have a nice day,' with in 99.9% of cases, the same insincerity!
JMO.

I totally disagree. I thank every serviceman and woman I see when we go through airports and when I see one with a hat on that shows what branch of the military they were in. I also stop whenever I see a fireman or a police officer and thank them for their service.
These people put their lives on the line every day for us. They deserve our thanks. It’s not like “have a nice day.” Maybe if you said it, it would be, but not when I say it.

[BOBBY65nj]

The day I enlisted was also the day that they processed 4000 men thru the facility in Philadelphia, All Services represented as well as those drafted into service. when we were done and being sent to get busses for our new assignments we were told to exit by the rear alleyway.
We walked past the trash,the garbage heaps,the smell on the wet pavement, BECAUSE there was a demonstration of war protestors out front.
I cannot forget that all the protestors went home that night, and that many in groups like mine went off to basic and then off to war. Many did their time and came home, many like three of my classmates died and others came home broken and wounded. So I thank the other vets their service. I am happy to see the newer vets getting their thanks ,and also thank us older vets for their service as well.

[Jeremiah Riordan]

Quick reply to "thanks for your service" is "thanks for your support." Works every time.

[Glen Dupuis]

I do appreciate the change in public perception since 09/11 but it is sad to realize that it all comes from the media. I served for 21 years, retired and then did 20 years of civil service for the military. No one ever appreciated my service until post 09/11 when the media finally acknowledged that service to our country ment that we were no longer “baby killers” from Vietnam but protectors from terrorists. I accept their thanks for all who served. I never felt like I did anything above and beyond, but I know many who did.

[Phil_Linda]

I went in The US Navy at age 17 and served from Jan 18, 1962 until May 17, 1966. I was fortunate to spend all of it on the east coast. With many trips to the Med and south. Also was at the conflict in Santo Domingo, 1965, this got all qualified for being members in the VFW. I am a lifetime Member but I do not go around with a Hat on all the time telling all I was in the service. I am very proud of my service and will forever love our country as they took a young boy, made him a man and taught him a job he used as a career until retirement.
When some do say "Thank You" to me for my service I respond with a warm "You are Welcome". The hardest thing for me is I have to continually state not being "in country" for Vietnam, because of the years I served.
Like many others I lost many friends back then.

[JimJohnson]

After spending a year in Vietnam that ended with my last month being Tet Offensive - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tet_Offensive) of February 1968, I flew into Fort Lewis, was marched with the others into a large gymnasium with racks of civilian shirts and pants. Was ordered to take off my uniform and put on civilian clothes. I asked why, and was told it would not be safe to go though the airport in Uniform due to war protesters. I said are you kidding me, I just had to fight for my life through TET and you tell me this. I asked to be reissued an M-16 and my uniform and I assured him I could get though a civilian airport. That was 51 years ago and still weights heavy on me as the most humiliating experience of my life.
So, yes although late in coming, I am proud to be a veteran and appreciate the comments.

[l2ridehd]

After spending a year in Vietnam that ended with my last month being Tet Offensive - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tet_Offensive) of February 1968, I flew into Fort Lewis, was marched with the others into a large gymnasium with racks of civilian shirts and pants. Was ordered to take off my uniform and put on civilian clothes. I asked why, and was told it would not be safe to go though the airport in Uniform due to war protesters. I said are you kidding me, I just had to fight for my life through TET and you tell me this. I asked to be reissued an M-16 and my uniform and I assured him I could get though a civilian airport. That was 51 years ago and still weights heavy on me as the most humiliating experience of my life.
So, yes although late in coming, I am proud to be a veteran and appreciate the comments.

I agree. I came home from Vietnam in 1975 and was yelled at, spat at (not hit at Chicago airport) and refused to be served in a restaurant. I was proud to have served and could not believe the country I returned to. I made a vow back then and I keep it to this day. That I would never accept anything from the taxpayers (government) of this country. It's a humiliation and very traumatic experience that I will never forget. And I hope Jane Fonda rots in hell. That time in my life made me very bitter. I was angry at our leaders for not letting us win a war that we could have won.

Today I honor and support our vets every chance I get. I am so glad that the country has changed in that regard. So yes I am glad to hear "thank you for your service". But I am still very angry about the treatment that I and many of my fellow veterans received from fellow citizens when we returned from a war that none of us really wanted to be there and a leadership that did not allow us to do the job we were sent there to do. I will never forget it.

[robertj1954]

My response is thank you with a smile. I also thank fellow veterans when ever I encounter them. To include paying it forward paying a meal to the few WW2 veterans we still have in The Villages.

[nikonuser1]

When someone thanks me for my service , I don't expect it so when it happens, it kind of catches me off guard. It takes me a few seconds to absorb what was said. I smile and either say you're welcome or I say thanks back, which really is not the proper response when some thanks you. I do appreciate it. It has just been so long coming that it feels odd in a way. We all served back then because we believed it was our duty to protect the world from evil. Our parents generation was the greatest generation and we felt we owed them too. Those things have changed now and that's sad.

[Curtisbwp]

At 18 yrs old I enlisted, upon finishing i was offered numerous opportunities. I refused the schools and told my CO that my desire was to serve in a combat role and that is what I got. I planned to pursue school after my combat duty. Well, I never got to go to school. I was injured severly and spent one year in a naval hospital. I DO NOT wear anything (hat, shirt etc) indicating that I served and that is the way i like it.

[Mugget]

I prefer to say "Welcome Home and Thank you for your sacrifices".
They and their families sacrificed so much so that could serve to protect our freedoms. 🇺🇸🗽

[Ecuadog]

Quick reply to "thanks for your service" is "thanks for your support." Works every time.

Thanks for that. I have found my new response.

[Rapscallion St Croix]

What goes through your mind when a stranger says to you - “thanks for your service” ?

No disrespect intended - just curious.



What goes through my mind is "Do you thank a kid for going to Disney World?"

I usually say, "It was a pleasure."

[1952Chevy]

I watched the Civil War movie “Shenandoah” the other night. Halfway through, Jimmie Stewart says, with subtlety, “what do you do with dead soldiers?” He was partially concerned with what to do with the remains of the dead Confederate soldiers, but mostly he seems to be expressing uncertainty about what will happen to these soldiers, long after they are buried. How will we remember them? How will we honor them? Well, that’s why we have Memorial Day.

As in the past, our fine men and women in the military are, again, giving their very lives to protect the United States. And almost daily, all across the country you see expressions of appreciation for their sacrifices. In a sense, almost every day is a Memorial Day. If you put a flag out every morning, the experience probably has very special meaning – a Memorial Day, of sorts.

Given the aforementioned, this leaves us with a little extra time this Memorial Day to remember someone in the military family that for decades received little sympathy or even attention – the mothers who’s sons and daughters died in Vietnam. They are mostly gone now, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to say we’re sorry your hearts were broken, and we remember you.

Returning from Vietnam in 1969, the Army for a time put me in charge of 5th Army Casualty Section (midwestern US). I would coordinate sending out the NG or Reserve Officers to notify families. But in weeks following, I took the phone calls from wives, sisters, brothers, fathers – usually wanting details as to how their loved one died. But it was the mothers I remember talking to the most. Usually they had family around them, but their community frequently ignored them, often scorned them and sometimes even harrassed them at a funeral or memorial service. For more than 20 years after their loss, while Vietnam Veterans were still unwelcome by the local VFW and American Legion, these mothers mostly endured their heartache alone, in their own private way.

After Desert Storm, the country began to express gratitude to the Vietnam Veterans and particulary show respect to those who lost their lives in Vietnam. But for many of these still grieving mothers, it was too little, too late. Although not true in every case, I believe most of these women were never allowed to feel the respect, honor, and appreciation they deserved for the extreme sacrifice they made for an ungrateful nation.

Lillian May, of White Deer, Texas, now 81 and living in Amarillo, raised five children. Her oldest child, Larry Allen May, was drafted and sent to Vietnam in April 1970. Six weeks later SGT Larry May, of the 101st Airborne Division, was killed in action. Larry’s mother wrote these words as a lasting tribute to his life and an expression of the love that she has for her son.

My Son

Each morning as I wake up at dawn.
To know you will never again see a sunrise.
You were always so warm hearted and gay,
It indeed seems very, very sad.
I remember the day you began school,
You were so happy with no worry or care.
The proudness I felt in my heart
Will never be forgotten so soon.
As you enter High School, Oh how proud you were!
You had so much ahead of you.
And on your Graduation Day
It was a special day in May.
Then off to college you decided to go,
And met lots of true and loyal friends.
Your life was so mixed up and the world in a mess,
You felt you had a duty to do.
You couldn’t get studies on your mind,
Cause of the military service waiting for you.
You made a big decision which you thought was right,
By doing your duty for your Country.
You had a year of service out of the way,
And were on your way to Vietnam.
That was the hardest day of my life,
You didn’t see my tears which came after the plane left,
I know you had them cause you didn’t look back.
You got on the plane so tall and proud,
I still wonder what was on your mind.
I was so sad, so very sad.
Cause in my heart I knew you would never return.
I can be very proud of you for being so brave,
You died for your family and what you believe in.
The day I feared finally came,
The news that you had been killed.
You were counting the days till you would return home,
But guess you are in heaven in your real home.
The days go by and my thoughts are always on you,
To know that you are as happy as can be.
So be a good guy and help us who are left here,
Please be there to greet me when God calls me.

Mom

Lillian May, special mom, this Memorial Day is for you and the tens of thousands of special moms just like you.

[John_W]

...I flew into Fort Lewis, was marched with the others into a large gymnasium with racks of civilian shirts and pants. Was ordered to take off my uniform and put on civilian clothes. I asked why, and was told it would not be safe to go though the airport in Uniform due to war protesters. I said are you kidding me, I just had to fight for my life through TET and you tell me this. I asked to be reissued an M-16 and my uniform and I assured him I could get though a civilian airport....

Thanks to you things changed. I landed at McCord AFB on Dec 22, 1971 about 1pm on a Continental Charter and and after clearing Ft. Lewis me and friend caught a cab to Sea-Tac Airport in Seattle and arrived there around about 3pm on a Friday afternoon. The next flight I could buy a ticket for to Tampa was with Eastern at 9pm Sunday night. I was in the airport all afternoon Friday, all day Saturday and all day Sunday and we have hundreds of soldiers, two planes from Nam and two planes form Korea came in that day and all the college kids in the state of Washington were let out that day for Christmas break. I had a grand old time looking at all the people and eating meals when I wanted, and buying cigarettes and smoking when I wanted, and sleeping in a chair when I wanted. No problems, it was just another day at an airport.

Here's me with my mother home on leave Nov 1970 getting ready to head to Korea for 13 months. Here I was 20 years old, today I'm 69.

https://scontent-mia3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/s960x960/67244976_1347012282129967_2149530165556805632_o.jp g?_nc_cat=105&_nc_ohc=3LebTe7BfdEAQkpdrkw1I1stnKH5IO_QIAjsS-Y4Mv-Zwm0Ug9ONdINkA&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-2.xx&oh=cf08ae1476062a045081c52a8ac6b1ed&oe=5EA3D8E2

[Stuart Benson]

There is no Virtue in killing other human beings.
Vietnam combat veteran.

. . . When Lowe's sales clerks, for example, say (because they are 'required to' and I am using a VA military discount) "Thank you for your service". I look them in the eyes and slowly say: "There is no Virtue in killing fellow Human beings".

. . . and I wait and watch for their conscious understanding . . . or lack of . . .

[John_W]

There is no Virtue in killing other human beings.

Vietnam combat veteran.

. . .

Virtue:

1) Courage – bravery and valor

2) Temperance – self-control and restraint

3) Liberality – bigheartness, charity and generosity

4) Magnificence – radiance, joie de vivre

5) Pride – self-satisfaction

6) Honor – respect, reverence, admiration

7) Good Temper – equanimity, level headedness

8) Friendliness – conviviality and sociability

9) Truthfulness – straightforwardness, frankness and candor

10) Wit – sense of humor – meaninglessness and absurdity

11) Friendship – camaraderie and companionship

12) Justice – impartiality, evenhandedness and fairness

Personally I can't imagine a War without Virtue, or I would not have enlisted.

[Stuart Benson]

Thank you for your list of virtues. Did I miss where "Killing others" was listed as a virtue?
Blessings of compassion.

[JimJohnson]

82391

I’m holding the M14. That’s how old I am.

[Rapscallion St Croix]

There is no Virtue in killing other human beings.
Vietnam combat veteran.

. . . When Lowe's sales clerks, for example, say (because they are 'required to' and I am using a VA military discount) "Thank you for your service". I look them in the eyes and slowly say: "There is no Virtue in killing fellow Human beings".

. . . and I wait and watch for their conscious understanding . . . or lack of . . .

Their lack of understanding probably relates to their not thanking you for your virtues but rather your service.

[Love2Swim]

I agree. I came home from Vietnam in 1975 and was yelled at, spat at (not hit at Chicago airport) and refused to be served in a restaurant. I was proud to have served and could not believe the country I returned to. I made a vow back then and I keep it to this day. That I would never accept anything from the taxpayers (government) of this country. It's a humiliation and very traumatic experience that I will never forget. And I hope Jane Fonda rots in hell. That time in my life made me very bitter. I was angry at our leaders for not letting us win a war that we could have won.

Today I honor and support our vets every chance I get. I am so glad that the country has changed in that regard. So yes I am glad to hear "thank you for your service". But I am still very angry about the treatment that I and many of my fellow veterans received from fellow citizens when we returned from a war that none of us really wanted to be there and a leadership that did not allow us to do the job we were sent there to do. I will never forget it.

It was wrong of protestors to treat returning veterans the way they did. The veterans after all were just doing what they were sent to do, what was required by law. But the majority of Americans were not in favor of the war and they wanted us out of there. In retrospect, we never should have gone there in the first place, and thanks to the continued protests, politicians finally listened and saved how many more thousand of soldiers from both sides from being killed and maimed.

I found this article recently that is quite apt:

The United States lost the war, but won the peace. It is difficult to imagine how things could have turned out much better if we had won the war. The United States remains the dominant power in the Asia-Pacific region. U.S. alliances with such critical states as Japan, South Korea and Australia are robust; U.S. relations with China are extensive if not always warm. Even U.S. relations with Vietnam are now proper and improving. The region is mostly democratic, wealthy and at peace. And despite gloomy predictions to the contrary, “dominos” did not fall to Communism after we lost in Vietnam.

[Back9]

YES I LIKE TO HEAR IT :coolsmiley::MOJE_whot:

LOL

Nothing like a little simplicity and levity in conversation like this :coolsmiley:

[LadyPenO]

Villagers mean it!!!!! We appreciate our veterans who live here in the villages. Join one of our veterans' organizations and see what they have to offer. You will be surprised...

[Graspher]

My father was World War ll. During the last chapter of his life he would spend two afternoons a week in his favorite restaurant buying meals for any actives that came in. Restaurant was located within 6 miles from a base. He didn’t speak about his service - didn’t advertise it via clothing and didn’t trigger any available discounts. His take on the “thank you...” was it wasn’t needed.

My younger brother was Vietnam - enlisted then volunteered for a second tour - both were combat tours. Like my father he doesn’t speak about his service or advertises it - but he does go to the DC Vietnam vets memorial every Memorial Day. I don’t know what his take on the “thank you...” is.

This ping has generated some excellent insights - thank you to all who responded.

[skyking]

There is no Virtue in killing other human beings.
Vietnam combat veteran.

. . . When Lowe's sales clerks, for example, say (because they are 'required to' and I am using a VA military discount) "Thank you for your service". I look them in the eyes and slowly say: "There is no Virtue in killing fellow Human beings".

. . . and I wait and watch for their conscious understanding . . . or lack of . . .

What a sad way to respond to someone's gesture of gratitude.

[Villages Kahuna]

What goes through your mind when a stranger says to you - “thanks for your service” ?

No disrespect intended - just curious.All the years of being away from my family and sacrificing the time I would normally have for personal activities are long forgotten. But when someone thanks me for that service I assume the thought comes from someone whi did not have the opportunity for military service and I appreciate it very much.

[collie1228]

There is no Virtue in killing other human beings.
Vietnam combat veteran.

. . . When Lowe's sales clerks, for example, say (because they are 'required to' and I am using a VA military discount) "Thank you for your service". I look them in the eyes and slowly say: "There is no Virtue in killing fellow Human beings".

. . . and I wait and watch for their conscious understanding . . . or lack of . . .

Wow, I am at a loss for words after reading this. Speaking as a Vietnam War Veteran, and as the son of a proud member of The Greatest Generation and WWII veteran, please don't ever make that comment to me.

[Two Bills]

Yes, we know there are cowards who will not fight to defend democracy or the inhumane treatment of human beings or holocausts. Thankfully, there are so many strong, brave men and women to defend and serve this country. Your drivel about anonymous murder really doesn’t belong in this thread.

My father would never talk about his service in WW2. and he died when I was just 12years old, so I never really had a chance in later life to discuss our times in the mlitary together.
I know from his service book, and from his service medals that I have still, his infantry regiment fought across N Africa, and then later, up through Italy.
The only thing he ever said to me, was about the two bravest men he ever knew.
Both I think he said were Quakers, (not absolutely sure, but pretty sure about that) but both had definitely refused to bear arms, or fight as such, but served as stretcher bearers, and medics.
I always remember him saying that when he and his mates had their heads down, they were out in the thick of it, picking up the wounded.
Not all who will not bear arms, or fight are cowards!

[Aces4]

My father would never talk about his service in WW2. and he died when I was just 12years old, so I never really had a chance in later life to discuss our times in the mlitary together.
I know from his service book, and from his service medals that I have still, his infantry regiment fought across N Africa, and then later, up through Italy.
The only thing he ever said to me, was about the two bravest men he ever knew.
Both I think he said were Quakers, (not absolutely sure, but pretty sure about that) but both had definitely refused to bear arms, or fight as such, but served as stretcher bearers, and medics.
I always remember him saying that when he and his mates had their heads down, they were out in the thick of it, picking up the wounded.
Not all who will not bear arms, or fight are cowards!

They served didn’t they? In a different manner, they supported the war, Bill. Far better than standing in line at Lowe’s mocking those that have worked/fought for freedom.

[Nucky]

The biggest regret of my life was not getting in the service. My parents and sister went on a vacation to Disney. They arrived home on a Friday and I was supposed to go to the recruiter in Morristown N.J. on the following Monday. Dad died on Sunday and I was aimless and unapproachable for years. I was 17 or 18 I believe.

I envy all the people who got to serve our country and thank them every chance I get even the people in our family, why not. How could you not respect anyone who gave of themselves so selflessly? I'm not into the word game a few posts back. I respect his point of view but do not agree with him.

Thanks To All For Your Service. The services they have at The Memorial just over the Golf Cart Bridge are beautiful. If you have a shot at attending it is really something as are our Veterans.