Memorial Day 2015

This isn't going to be an elaborate post, more a reaction to some of what I've seen on social media.

We in the Veteran community can't make everybody feel this day the way that we do and I don't think it's reasonable to expect that of the general populace.  Simply put, we've done our jobs extremely well, people here have no idea how ugly this world can be, and your average American is extremely isolated from all facets of our military exploits, most especially the sacrifices made by our brothers and sisters who will never return home.  I don't think that being a huge downer is going to help people make that connection much less drive home what those sacrifices really mean.  What will help is being present, letting people come to you on their own terms, and being willing to share stories about your buddies, what y'all went through together, and what those Heros mean to you.

I don't think there's any shame in enjoying this day.  I think all the brothers that I at least lost would want us to be happy.  That doesn't mean that I push their memories down, far from it, but I remember that in a more perfect world they'd be laughing and joking with me next to the grill today.

To any non-veterans reading this: by all means enjoy this holiday.  As much as I'd like you to appreciate the loss of my friends today, I'd much rather you appreciate it on Election Day.  Whatever your political beliefs, please honor the sacrifices made by our veterans by being an educated voter and voting for effective, capable leaders who will respect the fact that the rights we enjoy were paid for in blood.