I don't take my freedom for granted

Thank You

Doug, on behalf of all veterans I'd like to thank you for your thanks. It's too bad it takes a current war for most people to realize the impact the armed forces have had. It's nice to know that now people look at us as having done something useful and necessary, rather than simply being stupid for being grossly underpaid for -- in the words of Mort Walker, creator of Beetle Bailey -- "protecting all the freedoms we gave up as soon as we entered the service."

Like your father, I never served in combat (I did directly support the British during the Falklands War, but from the security of my computer terminal in Nebraska), but that doesn't mean my peers and I didn't sacrifice part of our lives to protect everyone else's freedom; just providing a deterrent is a major contribution. While I decided that making a career of the military didn't suit my personality, I have undying respect for those who do have the moxie to stick it out. So to all my fellow veterans, and most especially to those currently serving under an administration that takes the prize for mismanagement of the United States' armed forces, I add my heartfelt thanks.