An Open Letter To Our Veterans

Dear United States of America Veterans,
Thank you.  From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU.

I am not a distinguished member of the USA Armed Services.  I have never endured years of military training. I have never gone on the front lines and put my life at risk for this Country.  I have never watched my friends die while defending this Country.  I have never sacrificed long periods of time away from family, home and comfort to go where I am called to protect and defend our Country.

I am not those things, I have not done those things.  But YOU are those things, YOU have done those things.  And I THANK YOU.

I cannot give you a beautiful, shiny medal or well-deserved ribbons.  But I can say, “Thank You”.  And please know that I mean it with everything in me.

I know you’ve been hearing a lot about how so many people don’t seem to respect our flag or what she stands for anymore.  And you may think that some Americans have lost sight of who our Country is and what we are capable of.   Push those thoughts aside and remember that there are millions and millions of Americans who feel like me.

My heart is full each time I hear our National Anthem.  And I would never even think about not standing and putting my hand over my heart.  Because I respect what that song stands for and I respect the men, women and animals who have fought to keep us free.  My heart is full each time I see the American flag.  To me, this flag represents the greatest Country on the planet and without you, our Veterans, this would not be so.  Each time I see the beautiful sight of the American flag waving in the wind, I say a little prayer for all of you, our Veterans and our Soldiers who are currently serving.

My heart breaks each time I see the American flag disrespected and I know it breaks your heart too.  Just know that those people aren’t like us.  You only tend to hear about those who disrespect the flag, but millions and millions of Americans would never, ever disrespect the flag.  We love it and what it stands for too much to disrespect it.

Each time I see a uniformed service person, I just want to hug them.  Each time I see someone wearing a cap or tee that in some way lets me know they are a Veteran, I just want to hug them.  Because you’ve done things that many of us cannot imagine.  And that means something to me.

I feel like there are no words that could ever convey my gratitude to you.  A simple “THANK YOU” is not enough.  But I’m saying it with the deepest sincerity I have.

May God bless you, your families and May God bless the United States of America!

With love, gratitude and thankfulness,
A Citizen of the United States of America

Sending you grateful blessings from Sterrett, Alabama!
Charity