I dedicate this post to my friend Larry Frost, and all those Americans who have given their lives for the freedom I enjoy....
One weekend, several years ago, my husband and I took the family over to our Estrella Residential Center to visit the Moving Vietnam Memorial Wall. At that time, I had not yet seen the one in Washington DC, neither had our kids, so we thought that would be a nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon and reflect on the freedom we enjoy, and take time to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
One of our very dearest friends is a Vietnam veteran. He has shared many incredible stories with us in our home and his. We have looked through his picture and scrapbooks of memories, and seen the display of his many war medals that his wife lovingly made for him. He had tried to throw them all away once, but she would not hear of it. Despite the memories that still haunt him over fifty years later, she sees him as a true American hero. So do I.
I remembered him telling us many times about his dear friend, Shelby, whom he lost in Vietnam. It was a horrifying story in which my friend witnessed his best friend's helicopter being shot down just yards away from his own. Shelby had a baby daughter when he died...a daughter who would never know the incredible, kind-hearted man who was her father.
We arrived at the wall that day, and I realized I didn't have the slightest clue as to what Shelby's last name was, so that I could find him on the wall. My friends live in Kauai, so I texted them, hoping that perhaps they would see the text and reply in time. In the meantime, we decided to try to inquire based on our knowledge of Shelby's first name. It was not a common first name. Maybe, just maybe, we would get lucky.
We asked the volunteers, who were not only gracious but eager to help us find this friend. They looked up the name "Shelby" in the database. "Let's give it a try," one of them said. Then, we waited a few short seconds, and she gave us the verdict: "Seven. There are seven Shelbys on the Vietnam Wall."
I asked her about them--perhaps some detail might register so that we could narrow it down. Here is what I learned:
There are seven Shelbys on the Vietnam Memorial Wall.
One was from Louisiana.
Two were from West Virginia.
One was from Virginia.
One was from Missouri
One was from Nebraska
and one Shelby hailed from Ohio.
All of the Shelbys on the wall were from the ages of 20 to 23 when they died.
Seven sons. Seven friends to countless others. Seven American heroes.
These are the things these soldiers share...along with their name.
Suddenly, we wanted to find them. We all wanted to find each of the Shelbys on the wall because no matter which one was my friend's buddy, they all had a story to tell.
A story that ended much, much too soon.
In a strange way, I felt we owed all of the Shelbys a glance, a silent word of thanks. A touch on the wall. A photograph.
They deserved to be remembered.
We found all of the Shelbys. I took photographs of their names because these young men matter.
My friend did send me a text before we left the exhibit, and we were able to obtain a rubbing of his Shelby. The Shelby who was his dearest friend. The Shelby who would never really know his daughter. The Shelby who will always have a place in my friend's heart, and now, mine...
But I am so grateful to have found the others, as well. They will also have a place in my heart
Please watch these two videos (links below) explaining the origin of Veteran's Day and honoring American Veterans. Then, comment on how you celebrate Veteran's Day, or share about any veterans in your life!
Video One: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvkrwxsLXAw
Video Two: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQUxu9uyyBs
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Growing up, I was always with my older aunts and uncles and I remember all of the memories that they shared with me, the good and the bad. My great uncle fought in the Vietnam War, yet he was one of the unfortunate ones who heavily struggled with PTSD. Loud noises easily frightened him and there were certain television shows and films he did not have the privilege of enjoying, yet he still made the most of his life despite that. When I used to visit him, he was truly the happiest person and he loved being able to talk to me about everything that I was learning at the time. And sometimes, when he was comfortable, he would tell me of his experiences during the war, but only the good ones. He would tell me how he would flirt with the nurses to make his friends laugh and the camaraderie that he felt when things became too much. My mother always told me that he would always make sure that her and her brothers were always taken care of. Whether that be dropping off food, ringing the doorbell, and leaving (because my mom would argue with him, claiming they did not need it) when they did not have food in the fridge. Or going on walks with them to get a soda at Thrifty's when he knew my mom and uncles had a rough day. So every year on Veteran's day, I think of my great uncle, and the amazing man he was.
ReplyDeleteFor the first video, it discussed that in 1918, guns were lowered, the trenches grew silent and an Armistice was declared between the Allied Nations. How the women and children would get to solute the men. In the second video, a father and a son wander around to these places. The father narrates the video and discusses how he taught his son about how both genders shaped our world and how the legislative branch broke down into two separate sections. I don’t often celebrate veterans day, but since my tio used to be in the army, I thank him for his service every year.
ReplyDelete-Marisol E
During Veteran's Day, I always think about my two great grandparents and their story. My great grandfather was born in 1930 and my great grandmother was born in the late 1930's. My great grandmother was a young girl when World War II started, and she and her family lived in Germany at the time. At the time when the Nazi's were recruiting men, they tried to recruit my great grandmothers father. For fear of their family, they decided to flee from Germany in the middle of the night and escape to the United States. They successfully made it and were able to build a life here. During that same time my great grandfather grew up in the United States and when he was the right age to be drafted, he was drafted into the army. Although we don't know the exact timeline because my great grandfather never talked about it, we do know that he for sure served during the time of the Vietnam War, when it first started. My great grandfather and great grandmother met in a factory, got married, and later had their daughter (my grandmother) in 1964. By that time my great grandfather had already retired from the army. He never talked greatly about his time serving in the army simply because he didn't want to, and unfortunately he is no longer alive to share his experience. However, every year during Veteran's day I think of my great grandfather and great grandmother and their story of how they came together, as well as my great grandfather's service to the country.
ReplyDeleteOn Veterans Day, I always think about my relatives who have served our country and their sacrifices. My grandfathers were in the Navy, and my maternal grandfather served in the war. Also, my Uncle also served eighteen years in the Army and was deployed several times to the Middle East to fight in the war. I am extremely grateful for the men and women who came before and fought for our country. Although I don’t celebrate Veterans Day like the typical American holiday with gifts and decorations, I still keep in mind the brave souls who choose to serve for our country and their unwavering sacrifices and dedication.
ReplyDeleteI don’t really celebrate Veterans Day, as I don’t have family members in the United States Army, but the sacrifice and daring needed to be in that position are truly honorable and remarkable. I am proud to live in a nation founded by the sacrifices of the American soldiers to keep us secure, and no words can express the level of commitment it takes to accomplish such a dignified act. Lastly, I am honored to be in a society knowing that there are people who still care and protect our country from enemy fires day and night around the world so that we can sleep calmly in the face of a threat.
ReplyDeleteOn Veterans day me and my family say a silent prayer to the ones who have died and the families they have left behind. But also a prayer for the ones who were able to go home to family. We don't do anything besides a prayer and a thank you. I have a few family members that have served in the army. I only know one who's gone to war and has made it home safely. He served in Afghanistan. He has told some stories and without going into detail it had taken a toll on him. But the story gives me a new light about how horrible war is and how it affects the soldiers but the enemy and the people of the other country. I'm truly great for everyone who has served this country and how has fought for us to make America what it is today. I'm truly grateful for their sacrifices so I can go to school and sleep easy knowing I'm protected. - Anabel Salazar
ReplyDeleteOn Veterans Day I enjoy watching videos of families online sharing stories of veterans in their lives and what experiences they went through. In the past, my father told me stories about some veterans in his life, and he had told me more positive stories about them since I was only a child when he was telling me these stories. For this Veterans Day, I plan to ask him more about veterans who are in my life and ask to hear the stories about them even if they aren't the prettiest of stories. Although my family doesn't do much like others with going to see relatives or help those veterans who need it, I am still grateful and honored to be able to live in a safe country that was protected by veterans and is currently protected by the soldiers who are on duty. These soldiers and veterans have put their lives at risk to allow me and other citizens of our country to live our lives peacefully and safely.
ReplyDeleteAs Veterans Day approaches every year, I am always reminded of the extraordinary sacrifices individuals make for the nation's safety. It is refreshing to see individuals passionate about fighting for the country in various ways. Many of my family members are veterans, and I am always in awe of their bravery. I am grateful for those individuals who took the risk and worked hard to bring this country to where it stands. It is so significant to honor veterans for the loyalty and pride they have shown. Their confidence and bravery are inspiring to individuals who may want to follow in their footsteps or fight outside of their comfort zone.
ReplyDeleteOn Veterans Day I do nothing most of the time. In my family we have some vets but they don't care too much about the day. When we do, in that once in awhile off chance we just get together and eat food. No parties, nothing big, just a family dinner type set up.
ReplyDelete- Natalia Seawright
On Veterans Day, I typically do not celebrate it with my family. In my family, I do not have any veterans on either side of my parents' families. I have always just thought of it as a day off ever since I was little, since my parents have never done anything special on Veterans Day. After watching the videos and the origin of Veteran’s day though, I feel a new perspective forming and how much others sacrifice for me to have the freedom to have special moments with my loved ones.
ReplyDelete-Elizabeth Garcia
On Veterans day my family and I do a variety of different things. We first do a family breakfast all together, then we usually rewrite in the poem In Flanders Field, and we go get poppies, then go to our cemetery in Superior where majority of my extended family were buried. We then spend the rest of the day in Superior with my family and their parents. We do this to honor our family members that have passed, because the majority if not all were all veterans. Even to this day my grandfather and father have over 25 years of service. Along with most of our younger generation is enlisting.
ReplyDeleteFor veterans day, I take extra time to appreciate my father for him serving in the military in the navy for over 19 years and giving me a eventful childhood with all the travelling I got to do at a young age. Though my father has served in the military and continues to serve, we don’t tend to celebrate the holiday only honor the holiday. After watching the videos, it leads me to reflect how grateful I am for everyone who currently serves especially in my family and makes me realize how honored I am to know them and for their efforts they continue to make. It especially makes me reflect to realize how grateful I am to have had a unique childhood of being able to live in many different states and countries at such a young age. In summary, I am grateful for all who serve and for the life the military has given my father for my family.
ReplyDeleteSome of my family members have served in the military, but I’m not very close with them. Therefore, Veterans Day hasn’t felt like a big celebration for me. Growing up, I mostly saw it as just a day off since my parents didn’t do anything special for it. Which now feels completely wrong to say but after watching videos about the history and meaning of Veterans Day, my perspective has changed. I now recognize the sacrifices others have made, which allow me to enjoy special moments with my loved ones in freedom.
ReplyDeleteMy dad served in the Afghan War, and my grandpa served in West Germany when tensions were high due to the Cold War. My grandpa got drafted one year after him and my grandma married, and I am unable to fathom the pain of both my grandpa and grandma. He had missed the birth of my uncle as well. One of the stories my grandpa has told me was about a time in which his lieutenant saw a radar that was under maintenance and thought there were aircraft from East Germany flying in, and he sounded the alarm and was extremely panicked. My grandpa thought the mess-up was quite comical, hilarious even. I find it fascinating how in a time and environment of unease that he could find something comical. As for my father, he was stationed away from home for two years when I was three and four years old. I remember skyping him with my mother, but when he came home it was as if me and my brother did not know who he was, and were even scared of him for a bit. Honestly, it hurts me so bad to think of my dad being away from home and serving, to come home to his children that had a hard time recognizing who he was. I don't remember this part of my life all too much, as I was very young, however there are snippets of these times I do remember, as well as my mom's recollection.
ReplyDeleteOn Veterans day, we usually just tell My grandfather "Happy Veterans day!" if we see him. I have always wondered why we do not do much to celebrate the day. My mom works with Veterans every day so, in a way she celebrates them every day. As I grow older I realize that we do not need to wait for the designated day to reflect on the impact of the Veterans for our country, as they spent their lives in dedication to America. Although, in the future on my own I intend to make traditions rooted on Veterans day.
ReplyDeleteMe and my family don’t really have any Veteran’s Day traditions, as we don’t have anyone in our family that has served in the military or fought any wars. However, I do appreciate the men and women that fight for my freedoms. I am very grateful for those soldiers protecting our country and ensuring that democracy lives on in every American, and I am proud to live in a country where citizens are willing and enthusiastic about serving and protecting democracy. I cherish my rights and I understand that even though I may take them for granted, they are extremely valuable and not everyone in the world gets to experience the same rights and freedoms that I do. I’m taking this Veteran’s Day to think deeply about how important my freedoms are to me, and how big a sacrifice American soldiers have made just for me to keep living my life free. I am proud to be American. A quote that I really like that I am thinking of today is from JFK: “The cost of freedom is high, but Americans have always paid it”. Today I am taking a moment to acknowledge and respect the high price that our soldiers have paid for this great nation’s freedom. :)
ReplyDelete- Gabriel Gaspar Jiménez
Two of three of my grandfathers are a veteran of the Vietnam war and every year we take the day to celebrate them. One of my grandfathers still lives in California so we aren’t necessarily able to see him but we do all take time to call him and wish him a Happy Veterans Day. This year we took the grandfather that lives in Arizona out to breakfast at Crakerbarrel (his favorite) and we all just spent some time with him while he told us some stories of the war. My papa made lots of friends while in the war but unfortunately he was the only one who made it out. There was a terrible accident in a machine that his buddies were on and they were killed. My papa is also a bit of a war hero although not super famous of course. At one point during combat a manned helicopter had been hit and crashed. My papa was near it and he was courageous enough to enter into the burning helicopter and save whomever he could from it. I don’t really remember if those men survived, but I know that my papa risked his life to save them nonetheless. I find that to be very honorable and something to almost look up to in his bravery and just his care and hope for those men.
ReplyDelete-Sophia White
My grandpa is a veteran, and he is the reason for the strength that my family has, and reminds us of the will that we share to continue to fight. He served in the Air Force straight out of high school, marrying my grandma shortly after. They started a family that travelled the world from a young age, as my aunt and my mother, with her twin, were born in different states. On Veteran's Day, we like to go out to eat with my grandpa, specifically the places that give discounts for veterans, because my family loves a good sale. Then, we would listen to his stories of his time that consisted mostly of goofiness and jokes, because that is who my grandpa is and who he has always been. His humor is not just what grounds him, but us as well. He told us of a time when he had to drop a bomb from a jet he was on when prompted with the question, "Have you ever had to kill someone?" He would then crack a joke shortly after or go off on a tangent that we would have no problems listening to. This is why my grandpa is a veteran, because he continues to serve by bringing a light into my life even after he left the field, and taking the place as my best friend since birth. I want to strive to make him proud in every way I can because a lot of what I do couldn't have happened without his support and foundation. Though I want to start by appreciating him more than I think we do, as it's easy to take for granted what you don't have to miss. That is exactly what we do on veteran's day and the days that follow until the 11th comes round again; celebrate the life of my grandpa and recognize the struggles he faced and continues to endure to this day as an elderly African-American male living in the U.S. He makes me proud to say I come from a military family and continues to encourage my family to do the same thing as even my aunt in now in the Navy and serving our country as we speak. Happy Veteran's Day to my grandpa, all those who have fought and served, and those who are currently doing so!
ReplyDelete- Chloe Finch
While I don’t have any specific traditions to observe Veterans Day, I use this time to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of those who have served. It reminds me that the peace and opportunities I enjoy every day are made possible by their service. With my brother currently serving in Guam, I’ve gained a deeper sense of gratitude and appreciation than ever before. Knowing that he and so many others have chosen to dedicate their lives to protecting our nation fills me with pride and humility. Veterans Day has become a moment for me to pause and truly acknowledge the weight of their commitment the long separations from family, the challenges they face, and the bravery it takes to stand in defense of others. It’s a reminder not to take my freedom for granted and to find ways, big or small, to show respect and support for those who serve, not just on Veterans Day, but throughout the year.
ReplyDeleteOn Veteran's Day I spend time with my family since normally everyone has off whether it be work or school. We do some family activities and have a nice dinner together. My grandfather was a veteran so I always call him to remind him how important his service was and how I will forever admire all of his courageousness to fight in the military.
ReplyDelete-Braelyn Skok
Veteran's Day is a special day and should be remembered. On this day, I start by calling my grandpa because he was a veteran and thank him for everything he has done for this country. I also spend time with my family on this day since normally everyone has off. We normally go out to lunch or dinner together. - Cadance Skok
ReplyDeleteI celebrate Veterans day by calling all of my dads old buddy's who are still deployed or on active duty right now. Just to check in on them and see how their doing. One especially is important to me and that's my godfather, he enlisted with my father and he currently deployed right now, so its always nice to get a second to talk and catch up. We also eat steaks with my father who is now retired.
ReplyDeleteIn the past few years, when restaurants started doing "freebies", my dad has tried to get as much as possible during Veterans Day, since he served in the Army reserves back in 2004. This year, however, I got to celebrate Veterans Day by joining in on the Surprise community park Veterans parade, where I even got to celebrate my late grandfather, who passed away this past February. I was allowed to put my father, his father, and my mom's father on our parade walk boards, where I got to celebrate each of them together, even though they were separated in life and by state. - Jayden Guerrero
ReplyDeleteIt may seem extremely simple or just simply stupid but for us, my family goes on about their day quite normally unless my grandfathers seemingly change their mind, but they usually don't want to do very much, both my great grandfather, and grandpa were veterans. But to me at least they seem as if they would rather move on, be acknowledged for what they had done and just live their lives, they don't wish to make a big deal on something, that had already taken up a large chunk of their life. -Kaeden Sabatina
ReplyDeleteWhile I do not celebrate Veterans Day like a typical holiday, I still take a minute to think and reflect. It is an important day to celebrate, reflect, and love those who have served our country. I did not do anything this Veterans Day, but my mom took my dad out to lunch to celebrate him and everything he has done. My dad served for several years, and I take this day to reflect on all the things he has done and many others have done, including their bravery and strength.
ReplyDeleteAs everyone usually does right before Veterans Day, we also partake in the veterans parade, and we get to see all the veterans go through the Odyssey driveway with their cars. It’s nice to see how many people enjoy and partake in the war, and it’s important to see them. However, the way my family and I celebrate Veterans Day is by visiting my dad. He lives in Texas because my mother and father are recently divorced. When my siblings and I go to Texas, we meet my father's side of the family and have a huge dinner with ribs, potatoes, and macaroni. We don’t do a lot for Veterans Day besides eating, because we don’t have many veterans in my family on both sides. However, it is nice to remember and appreciate the people who sacrificed themselves, or even just went through military service. When visiting my father, he tells us stories about what he did in the military and how he injured himself during the service. This year, we did it over call, but it was still nice to see me dad
ReplyDelete-Lillie Edwards.
My family did not really celebrate the veterans day in any special way, but we are all very grateful for the freedom we enjoy because of the work of soldiers and veterans. Furthermore, I am quite impressed with how Americans celebrate the Veterans and honor their work. In Germany the army has a much lower public recognition and most people do not feel the same patriotism which I experienced during Veterans day in the US in the recent days. Because I know both cultural perceptions, I can compare them to each other and I personally, like the appreciation of Veterans day in the US more because it honors their effort and the work they do to protect the peoples freedom while putting their life on stake.
ReplyDeleteOn the weekend, I went to the airplane museum in Tucson where I met some Veterans who where sharing their experiences of the Vietnam war. These conversations were highly fascinating for me because I got first hand experience from the people which gave me a whole different perspective on war and its impact on the people that participate in it. My take-away is a lot of gratefulness and appreciation for their work and sacrifices they make for the nations safety and the freedom of its people.
-Luis Suessmuth
I love this - thank you so much for sharing your perspective. I am so happy as the daughter and mother of Veterans to hear that impression of America. I appreciate your sharing this!
DeleteMy dad and his father were both in the Navy, my dad being a Navy Nuke. Although my grandfather passed away before I was born, my father has been able to teach me some skills and lessons he learned while serving. Listening to some of the stories he has told me while overseas has made me appreciate him and all veterans even more. My friend Logan de Guzeman is currently serving in the Air Force as well. They sacrifice everything to serve their country and I am grateful for everything they have done to protect their loved ones.
ReplyDeleteCurrently, I do not have any veterans in my family, and I don't do much to celebrate Veteran's day, except for one thing. My older cousin is about 30 and he is currently in the military, specifically, the medical branch of the army. He used to serve in Germany when I was in 5th grade and had moved to Arizona when he got deployed when I was in 9th grade. But now, he's been deployed to West Virginia. On every Veteran's day, I call him. We talk about his life at the moment, what he's doing, how my other family is, and what he's been doing in the military. I know he isn't currently a veteran, but he eventually will be. So, with these calls, I get to visualize a future where he's a veteran that other people honor. It makes me happy imagining that life for him. I also get to have more insight into the army and his role within it. Here, I see and understand so much of what the military does for America and its citizens, the amount of work they do to bring us these free lives we pursue. I will forever respect my cousin for his dedication to his country and all he does for my family with his service.
ReplyDelete- Dilini Marasinghe
I do not currently have any veterans in my family, we do not celebrate it but my grandmother always takes the time to educate my sister and I about the importance of the holiday. My grandfather and my great grandfather were veterans. They went through many struggles and sacrifices for our country. Their stories made me realize that serving for our country is an extremely dangerous thing, but also very brave. I admire and look up to all of those who had and have the courage to stand up for our country.
ReplyDeleteFor Veterans Day, I celebrate my grandpa, who served 21 years in the military. Most commonly, we give him a card or send him a message of gratitude, but this year I wanted to do more. I wanted to show how much he was truly appreciated for his determination and bravery. So, this year my sister and I decided to make my grandparents dinner. We bought all of the ingredients ourselves, spending a total of around 5 hours in the kitchen cooking. We made a beef stew that we all really enjoyed, and sat around at the table talking and laughing. Though it was a small gesture, it made me appreciate all the time my grandparents have dedicated to my sister and me. I am so grateful to have the opportunity to celebrate such courageous, honorable people, especially my grandpa. -Bella Pinnick
ReplyDeleteMy dad is a veteran who served in the Navy. His service was a big part of making him who is today, so my family makes sure to honor that part of his life. My dad’s side of the family is full of veterans, some of whom even fought in World War II. While we do not have specific traditions for Veterans day, we make sure that we are all together and usually have a big family breakfast and dinner. Throughout the day, I think of all the people who have served and how brave they must be to put themselves in danger to protect the rest of us. Sometimes I take my freedom for granted, so it is good to have a reminder of those who gave me and many others the lives we have today.
ReplyDelete-Alex Rogers
Although my dad and grandfather both served in the military, we oftentimes take a break on Veterans' Day to enjoy the comforts of life and, most importantly, spend time together as a family. Most years follow a similar pattern of sleeping in, grabbing groceries with a fast-food lunch, and eventually a delicious dinner once my dad grills burgers for us. We also make onion rings and bacon to use as toppings, which makes every burger incredibly filling but very delicious. Finally, we all watch a movie or end up playing a (very loud) game of Mario Party, and even if my little brother can sometimes gloat too much for his own good, I can’t really think of a better way to spend a day off. Days like this have also grown in significance to me since I’m headed to college soon and won’t see my family as much, so I feel very lucky to have moments like Veterans’ Day, which allow me to appreciate the people around me as well as the efforts of millions of soldiers who make America worth living in.
ReplyDeleteI know many veterans; my Great-grandpa, my grandpa, and three of my uncles were in the military once. To me it never seemed like a big deal because they were in the military before I was even born. But the people like them who enlist go through a lot and are very courageous to do what they do. It takes a lot to have the courage to sign up and have the resilience to train and build up the strength and confidence to be prepared in case we were ever in a war. And to me those people who sign up are very strong and selfless to choose to put themselves in that postion. So even though I don't have a celebration on veterans day, I have a lot of respect for my family, and all of the veterans out there.
ReplyDelete-Lola Baldonado
I do not have any family members who ever served in the military, but I do know a friend, Logan de Guzman who is currently serving the air force. I have never really done anything to celebrate veterans' day like a traditional holiday; my family usually makes a more traditional American dinner. There have been several times where we have gone over to my Nana's house for the day since she is very patriotic.
ReplyDelete-Ariana Bills
Unfortunately, I don't really do much on Veterans Day. I have an uncle who is a veteran, but I don't see him much. I do, however, reflect on Veterans Day about the commitment others have made to ensure the safety and protection of others, and how inspiring and selfless it is to serve your country.
ReplyDelete-Gwendolyn Carricart
Unfortunately, I don't do much on Veterans day. I do have have a uncle who is a veteran and sometimes we spend the day with him and go out to eat. I always make sure to remind him how grateful I am for his service.
ReplyDelete-Adina Lopez
DeleteMy Veterans' Day usually does not consist of a large gathering or anything of that sort, but I do enjoy speaking to the veterans in my life. I typically converse, whether over text or in person, with both my grandpa and aunt who served military roles respectively. My aunt's service was more recent, so the information she can provide me with is more clear and specific, but I do enjoy hearing both of their experiences. We do not exclusively speak about their service, but also just talking as people and family to make them feel how much I appreciate them.
ReplyDelete-Tatum Eleopulos
While I never had relatives or close family members who served in the military, Veterans Day has always been a silent reminder of me for young age. I was very close to my friends growing up, and often went over to their grandparents’ house. The family of one of my friends was a veteran. Although I didn't know what war he served in, but I do remember how proud he was to be with him, and how joyful he was to be with his family.
ReplyDeleteSometimes he would sit with us—a few kids; he told short bits of his story. He made it no dramatic, simply spoke about fighting battles, about the uncertainty and accountability I once carried.
This wasn’t always the case even as a child. I loved him very deeply not for the details of his work but for the person he became after it: kind, grounded and generous.
While I don’t have a tradition for Veterans Day, I sometimes think about him, and people like him; who I have only met once but who have made me very quiet. I remember his praise in his voice, his gratitude in his actions, and how his stories showed me not only that veterans are not more than the wars in which they served as members, but as people who continue to serve communities as they move through time.
I learned from that day on to appreciate veterans for what they did, not just for the things they did, but for who they are.
On Veterans Day, I do not typically do a lot, as if it were a more typical holiday, I have an uncle who served in the military as well as a few other family members, so during that day, I will thank them for their service while also thinking about all those soldiers who have fought for our country. I am very grateful for the soldiers who have risked their lives in both the past and present to provide a safe home for us, and for how they put their lives at risk, which is so incredibly brave of them. - Paityn Schroll
ReplyDeleteThough I don't have any immediate relatives in the army or do anything in particular to celebrate veterans day, that isn't to say I don't show gratitude towards our veterans. Being a veteran is more than a badge, a title, or a discount, it's a lifestyle. Being in the West-MEC Law & Public Safety Program, we go over the effects of PTSD in its various degrees; the highest of course being military service. Servicing our country is more than risking your life, it's also risking your mental and physical well-being even after your service. While being in the comfort and safety of their own home, sudden noises can trigger flashbacks, memories, or extreme shock onto a veteran. It turns any setting into a battlefield; making life an on-going mental war. That's a great sacrifice that should go noticed and commemorated, especially considering how many of us wouldn't be willing. So when I see a veteran, and summon up the courage, I try to thank them for their service because I believe it's more than words; it's a reminder of their sacrifice made to keep our country's freedoms. Thus, I am very proud to live in a country that values and highlights the sacrifices made by those in our military to enforce and uphold the privileges and freedoms which are rare in other countries.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, I do not celebrate Veterans day, but I still make an effort to acknowledge the sacrifices of the soldiers who gave me the freedom I now have. I also do not have any veteran family members.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, I do not celebrate Veterans day, however there are many among my family who have served in the military. During the time of the Vietnam war, on my dad's side of the family, many of my great uncles were drafted and signed up to fight in the war. I believe it is crucial to acknowledge the service that people had in any war or military involvement as they shape and preserve the country we live in today. Their sacrifices remind us that freedoms we often take for granted was earned through courage and dedication. Even if I do not celebrate the holiday, I always hold a higher level of respect for those who have served.
ReplyDelete-Aiden Castillo
DeleteWhile Veterans day is not a holiday that I celebrate nor do I have any family members who served in the military, I still respect and honor those who served. Serving in the military is not easy as many people have to leave their families behind and are ultimately putting their lives on the line. I think that it is important that we acknowledge and appreciate the bravery they had to sacrifice themselves for our country.
ReplyDelete-Melina Lupercio
Veteran’s Day is not a holiday I typically celebrate, but in the past few years, as this day has come up, I have grown a much deeper appreciation for veterans and their service to our country. My grandpa served in the Navy, my uncle in the Marine Corps, and my other uncle in the Coast Guard. After reading this blog, I realized every veteran had an important impact on the country, whether big or small. So, this past Veteran’s Day, I reflected on my family members' contributions more than I ever had and appreciated their efforts.
ReplyDelete-Carah Brilhante
I do celebrate Veterans Day, My Great Grandfather on my mom's side of the family and my Great Grandfather on my dad's side of the family were both veterans and they both served in World War 2. Every year me and my family go to see a Veterans Day parade to honor many other veterans.
ReplyDelete- McKenna Woods
Usually on veterans day, my family and I decide to go eat out somewhere. Usually consisting of my step-dads favorite places such as Red Robin or Golden Corral. Other than that, we really don't do much, even though my family is full of veterans.
ReplyDeleteVeterans Day as a whole is not a holiday my family normally celebrates, the most typically do is throw some burgers on the grill as Veterans day is an American holiday and burgers are seen as American food. This being said I do like to think about the Veterans in my life, such as my Great Grandpa who has been a role model from an early age along with my Uncle who also served. Their service reminds me of the American courage, and the sacrifices that have been made by honorable people. I like to think of them on this day, and remember to live my life in a way that honors there service and commitment to this country.
ReplyDeleteMy family doesn't really celebrate anything on veterans day, but I do know a veteran in my family who treats the day with specialty. My father served time in the army and delpoyed overseas in Afghanistan when I was very young. My grandfather was also drafted into the army during the vietnam war and spent 2 years after the conclusion of Vietnam in Germany. My family doesnt do anything and neither does my Grandpa since hes retired, but my dad takes the day to go around and try new things since everythings at a discount.
ReplyDeleteMy family doesn't do much other than say a prayer for veterans on veterans day. Only my fathers mother and grandfather served but we don't talk to his side of the family much or live anywhere near them.
ReplyDeleteI typically spend my Veterans Day remembering past and present veterans, along with their contributions and sacrifices for America. My father was a combat veteran himself and served in Iraq before I was born, so I especially honor him on this day of remembrance.
ReplyDeleteMy family does not really do anything to celebrate Veterans day. I have no veterans or military personal in my immediate family, however my uncle served in the navy and during Veterans day I like to give him a call and catch up with him as we don't get to talk as often as we should. Recently as I've become more aware of others and the world around me, during Veterans day I like to reflect and appreciate the people that fight for our freedom.
ReplyDeleteIn my family, Veterans' Day is not celebrated with the same enthusiasm as Christmas or the Fourth of July, but serves more as a day of acknowledgement for our relatives who have served and the ways their service has benefited us all. For example, my grandfather and my great uncle, his twin brother, both served in the Korean war; my grandpa in the Army Corps of Engineers, and my great uncle as a solider. While they spent little time in service before the end of the war, the money my grandfather was given access to through the G.I. Bill allowed him to finish his PhD and have a long, successful career that provided for his family and allowed each of his children to pursue their dreams and succeed on their own as well.
ReplyDeleteMy family has a long history of military service. My Great Grandfather won a silver star in World War 2. My other Great Grandfather designed the prototype for the gas mask at MIT in WW1. My Great Uncle served as infantry in Vietnam on the front lines. My other grandfather was in the air force during Vietnam he sprayed Agent Orange. My grandfather was in charge of launching nuclear weapons on a submarine during the Cold War. My stepfather and his Brother Served in the Army. My Aunt was a pilot in the Air Force for 20 years. Finally, my Brother is currently enlisted in the Navy. If I really wanted to bore you I could say my great great grandfather fought in the Civil war when he was 15 and go back even further than that to the revolutionary war. My family Veterans Day is a big deal in my family. I wake up and send messages thanking every living member of my family who has served for their service. We go out to Texas Roadhouse or have a big cookout together as a family. My whole family is proud to be American and there is no better why to show it than by serving your country and protecting its citizens.
ReplyDeleteMiles Berendsen
In my family, Veterans Day is a day of acknowledgement for everyone who has served the country. It is mostly celebrated by my brother and father as they both served in the U.S Marine Corps. We often join them in their celebration and express our gratitude for the many opportunities that their service has given us.
ReplyDeleteMy dad worked in the military for a long time before and after I was born and I like to use veterans day as a way to celebrate him and what he did for our family. Typically on veterans day I also like to talk to him about what his experience was like in the military and about all of the places he's been to himself. I find it really interesting to hear him talk about what it's like and the places he's been to because it provides me a better understanding of what life for people in the military is like. Along with that, I also like to see how veterans day is respected as a whole in the United States, like different celebrations or people posting about veterans that they have in their life.
ReplyDeleteI have one uncle who served in the U.S. military as a marine, now he is a DEA agent on the Mexican border. Where many veterans are shown to be serious people, he is a bit of a goofball. He likes making lots of bad jokes and weird noises and has a very youthful spirit, though his hair is graying. Last time we visited he told us about how his department was purchasing a tiger from an illegal exotic creature dealer as part of an operation. Other than a small popcorn incident he is a really chill guy with lots of hilarious stories to tell.
ReplyDelete- Owen Elledge
I only have one member that in my family that is a veteran and it's one of my older cousins who's experience in the military I don't know much about. I do have one uncle who married into the family who serves in the navy and he's awesome. He's the guerito of the family but he's a super genuine guy and we just had him over for thanksgiving. I bleive he's a mechanic that works on planes thats pretty much all I know about his work. Asides from that I recognize the sacrifices of a lot of veterans and I always take a moment to think about the loss in my life in general. Sacrifice is often the ultimate form of sleflessness and Im thankful for the people who place this country above themselves.
ReplyDelete-Damian Rosales
DeleteMy family doesn’t do much to celebrate Veterans Day; we usually acknowledge the date, but there isn’t too much beyond that. I have multiple veterans in my family, but the one who has had the most prominent impact on my life is my great-grandfather. I don’t have many stories about his military service because he didn’t talk about it much; instead, he served as an important role model to me. I think I take his service and many others for granted, and I hope to take more appreciative actions or even thoughts moving forward because what they have done and gone through is important to acknowledge.
ReplyDelete-Austin Schmidt
I don’t really celebrate Veterans Day in any big way, but I do respect those who have served. My connection to it comes mostly from my childhood as I used to have an older neighbor who was like a grandpa to me who also served in the Air Force. Because of him, Veterans Day always felt more personal and we would go to local events together, and I’d make little cards for him to honor his service. Even now, I think about him on that day as someone who played an important role in my life.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate both the videos and the reminder of the impact of our veterans. It is good to remember what veterans mean for our country and what they mean for us. I am grateful to live in this country that has been fought for and protected by very special people. For Veterans’ Day, I try to stay thankful for the privileges that are given to me by the men and women who have fought for this beautiful country. I reflect on the veterans in my family and the stories I have because of their service.
ReplyDeleteI don’t really celebrate Veterans Day as my parents, or anyone in my family, really make it a super grand day. Although I don’t celebrate, I often do think about people that I know who have served, like my dad. When I was little, I do remember making my dad little cards on Veterans Day and thanking him for his service. Even though I don’t celebrate the day as I would for other holidays, I am still extremely grateful for those who have made sacrifices for what we have today.
ReplyDelete-Madia Schweitzer
My family and I do not have plans or choose to celebrate Veterans day in any way. However, I am lucky enough to have a godmother who served for our country for many years. Her impact and bravery teaches me everyday why it is so important to keep pushing myself to do more and I am beyond grateful for her and the amazing sacrifices she has made for this country.
ReplyDeleteMy family doesn’t do a lot to celebrate veterans day. We appreciate the veterans of the world and everything they have done to ensure the country is a safe place to live. However, we don’t have any veterans in the family to celebrate with. So, it ends up becoming a moment of self reflection for my family of the dedication and sacrifice that has allowed us to stay together, to be healthy and flourishing. It is a great day of the year to remember gratitude and grace of everything those around us have endured and given to make the world better. It seems November is a really great month for gratitude! There’s quite a lot to be thankful for in the world.
ReplyDeleteGrowing up in a military household, it was ingrained in me from a very young age the importance of expressing gratitude for the men and women who have served and continue to serve our country. I have been able to more fully understand the sacrifices that servicemen and women endure as I remember talking to my mother via Skype when she was deployed to Qatar as she read books to me and my sister and celebrated milestones virtually. My parents always remind me that regardless of the political climate and contrasting opinions that exist in times like these, that it is vital to acknowledge and appreciate the work put in to establishing the right to express these opinions freely. While we do not do anything specific to celebrate Veterans' Day, I try to be mindful of the way Veterans have fought for our country in my daily life.
ReplyDelete-Matthew Ruiz
While my family and I don't do much for Veterans Day, I am proud to have my dad and step-mom as veterans who served for the country. For Veterans Day, I usually spend time with my younger siblings, and we make cards for them. My parents will often make it a day for us to be lazy, watch TV, and hang out. Even though we don't do much, my siblings and I have been told and had it engraved that we must be very appreciative of those who served in the military and be grateful for what we have and who we are. My parents will also occasionally tell stories of when they were in the military, and it makes me more appreciative of what I have in my life and the privileges presented to me.
ReplyDelete- Viviana Lalone
Although I appreciate the origin provided from the 2 videos and the idea of Veteran's Day itself, me nor my direct family celebrate it in a particular manner, as I have no close relatives that have served in any branch of the military that I know of. Even with this situation, I still credit the day when the holiday comes around by taking a second to reflect and truly appreciate those who have fought for our country. Although I don't celebrate the holiday with the same amount of enthusiasm as other holidays like a birthday or Christmas, I still acknowledge it as a significant day to honor and thank the people that have made sacrifices for this country.
ReplyDeleteWhile me and my family do not do anything special for Veteran's day, I do have an uncle who served for our country. I am very grateful for his heroic and brave actions. Due to my relationship with him, I look forward to Veteran's day as his and many others' involvement in protecting our country can be celebrated.
ReplyDeleteI personally don’t have a particular way of celebrating veteran’s day, however I am highly grateful for all the veterans who put their lives on the line for the sake of all of us. I don’t personally know any veterans and they usually aren’t the number one thing I’m thinking about, however when I do, I think about all the things they have to endure and the bravery they must possess to ensure that our lives are safe and our freedom is protected. I may not be the biggest patriot in the world, however, I still am grateful for every veteran and everything they do for us here at home.
ReplyDeleteMy family has never celebrated Veterans’ Day, and we do not have any family members who have served in the military. We do, however, respect the sacrifices made by this country’s veterans. Although I have never celebrated the holiday, I do value the fact that our current livelihoods are made possible through the great deeds of many veterans.
ReplyDelete-Kyarah Charles-V.
Even though my family and I don’t typically celebrate Veterans Day, nor do I know of any veterans in my life, I still take the day as a moment of reflection. The day reminds me of those who have fought for our country and have given each of us the freedom we have today to live our lives as we do. It teaches me to push myself harder to live my life to the fullest and be grateful for the sacrifices made.
ReplyDeleteI don't really celebrate veterans day's unfortunately as not many of my family members have ever been in the military. One year I remember my family going to a flight show, but besides this we usually just spend the Veterans Day at home. This doesn't affect my appreciation for our veterans though, I appreciate the sacrifice millions give to keep America safe!
ReplyDelete- Elvie Hathaway
Even though my family and I don’t normally celebrate Veterans Day and I don’t personally know any veterans, I still use the day as a meaningful time to pause and reflect. Veterans Day reminds me of the countless individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting our country, ensuring that we have the freedoms and opportunities we often take for granted. Thinking about their sacrifices encourages me to appreciate the life I’m able to live and motivates me to work harder, pursue my goals with purpose, and stay grateful for the security and independence their service has provided. It’s a day that helps me slow down, acknowledge the bravery of others, and remember the importance of gratitude in my everyday life.
ReplyDeleteFor me and my family personally, we don't celebrate veterans day. I do have some family members that are int he military but they are across the country and not in my immediate family, therefore we are not inclined to celebrate much. Even though, I do understand the importance of it as many people's family are heavily involved in the military and go through some hardships because of it. For that I am grateful for those people who continue to protect us and serve our military.
ReplyDelete-Parker Dolan
The way I celebrate Veterans Day and honor those who have fallen so that we may stand and breathe freely is by putting up decorations in their honor. That being flags and such, along with doing a moment of silence for those who have fallen as well. We also visit our Grandpa, since he is a veteran too. We stay with our Grandpa for a long time to make sure he feels loved and happy, and to be by his side.
ReplyDelete-Julian Salazar
The way I celebrate Veterans day is by taking time to remember those special people in my life who I know have served in the military. I think it's extremely important to take time to honor those people and take some time to show gratitude for all they have done.
ReplyDelete-Zoe Garcia
I don't personally have any specific traditions surrounding Veteran's Day besides going out to eat but, I do take the time to thank all the family I have that served.I come from a large, deeply rooted Air Force and military family, spanning multiple generations on both sides. My mom’s side includes grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, and uncles who’ve served, and on my dad’s side, it’s no different, with my father, aunts, and uncles all answering the call of duty. My dad’s military career took him all over the world, with deployments to places like Kuwait and Afghanistan. As a child, those deployments were always hard. I missed him so much, and there were times when the distance felt unbearable. I remember, as a little kid, I gave him a small stuffed bunny named Hoppy, a token of my love and a way to remind him that, even when we were far apart, I was always thinking of him. I wanted him to have something to hug whenever he missed me, just like I missed him. It’s these personal stories, these small gestures, that make me feel even more connected to the spirit of Veterans Day. It’s not just about honoring service; it’s about acknowledging the emotional and personal toll that service can take on the men and women who give so much for our freedom. For that I am eternally grateful!
ReplyDeleteFor my family, veterans day isn't celebrated very much. My family has a lot of military ties with a plethora of my relatives serving in the air force and navy. With having such a close relation with the military, we've also grown tired of the military life, so our patriotic embers for our armed forces has also grown dim. We commend my father for the 12 long years he devoted to the Navy, but beyond that, we don't do anything to celebrate.
ReplyDeleteMy family is not one to celebtrate veterans day yearly, but during that day and leading up to it, I always at least give a thought and a prayer to the sacrifice all of those people made so I could live the life I live today. It is truly a remarkable action that people were willing to do that, and it devastates me that they had such an outcome. My family has no veterans, so we do not see the point in celebrating, but I do agree with the fact that we should still do so because they changed the country’s life for the better, even if we did not know them personally. - Meredith Hession
ReplyDeleteMy aunt was part of the airforce for about 12 years. During her time in the military, she had undergone many experiences that she shares with me; some in a positive light while others are not. She talked about partaking in lunch duty and how even in the dead heat summers she would have to run on the track until sweat was dripping down her face. She talked about the inertia and adrenaline that came along with riding in the jets. She has very strict discipline, which she often attempts to pass on to me and my siblings. She actually entered very young and was pregnant for a portion of her service, but still she pushed on, and I think of her admirable journey in how she would never let herself be stopped. She, unfortunately, also had to witness the brutal deaths of her best friend and others she made along the way. She does struggle with PTSD, which can be heartbreaking to witness at times, and on this day I appreciate her sacrifices and pray for the many others who sacrifice themselves so that we can live a carefree life.
ReplyDeleteDuniya Ahmad
DeleteMy family celebrates Veterans Day to show respect to the family's who have lost a son, a husband or a father to the war. I don't have any family member in the military except for my father who was dishonorably discharge from his platoon. But still we show respect to the fallen soldiers who bravely fought for our country and serving proudly to protect the ones they loved.
ReplyDelete-Matthew Rodriguez
My family would usually have dinner together as a way to celebrate Veterans day, both my uncles were in the army and had been through mostly everything together. We show our appreciation towards them everyday to know that we are proud of them.
ReplyDelete-Brylee Gibson
My family goes to my grandfathers house and we have dinner and spend time with him because he had severed in the Navy. We also call my uncles that live in another state and talk to them before we go to my grandfathers. Many of the men on my moms side served in the military, so we spend the day with them.
ReplyDeleteMy family does not usually celebrate Veteran's Day, yet we dedicate the day to commemorating our family members that served. For example, my great grandmother served as a nurse for wounded soldiers during the Second World War in the Philippines. We remember, thank, and pray for our family members both alive and passed on for providing not just for us, but for the country.
ReplyDelete- Eli M.
My family doesn't do anything in particular to celebrate veterans day but we always make it a priority to recognize and appreciate the veterans we encounter. Without veterans and people who fight for our country, American freedom and individuality would not be possible.
ReplyDelete-Maddy Twarek
On Veterans Day we honor the people and families who have dedicated their lives and hearts to fight for freedom for our country. They put their lives on the line for people they don’t even know with such courage and bravery. My family and I usually don’t do a whole lot and treat it like a free day to hang out. We ALWAYS call my grandpa though and thank him for his service and to check up on him. He fought in Vietnam for over 3 years at around 18 or 20 years old. Another thing we sometimes do is buy some little sparklers and cook burgers outside.
ReplyDelete- Bella Woods