"Happy" Veteran's Day

I don't want this post to be one of accidental disrespect, or extreme negativity.  I will start off by saying I have nothing but the utmost respect for our military and veterans.  I am grateful for them, for their families, and the sacrifices they make on behalf of our country every day.  I have a deep pride, and a deep love for this amazing country of ours.  Today, we have the humbling blessing of honoring our many veterans.  I praise God for these men and women, for their wisdom and strength, and for following the commandments the Lord has given them.

However, I struggle with the sentiment "Happy Veteran's Day."  I know that many say it for lack of any other way to express their gratitude, but I do wish people would think their words over, and choose them more carefully.

Perhaps the 'happy' is when the veteran comes home at all, but sadly, most of our veterans are coming home badly bruised and broken.  They are lost souls, and they, along with their families, suffer horribly. Many of our veterans come home and cannot function in everyday society.  They cannot function within their own homes and families.  It's sad and there is nothing 'happy' about it.

In 2013, a VA study found that at least 22 veterans were/are committing suicide every day.  In 2014, at least 50,000 veterans accounted for the homeless community.  PTSD affects at least 31% of Vietnam veterans, 10% of Gulf War veterans, and 11% and counting of our current wars and engagements.  The statistics go on.  And yes, there are statistics of successful veterans, as well.

I grew up with a functionally alcoholic and severely depressed father, who also had latent/undiagnosed PTSD, a result of his time in Vietnam.  There was nothing happy about that man.  No way about it, he suffered, and so did our family.  

That said, I also learned a lot.

I am always grateful for our veterans.  I am grateful beyond words for our military, and I have a deep love and pride for our country. This love and respect was grown by my father's 20-plus years in the USMC, and being raised surrounded by other so-called military brats just like me.  Shawn and I have taught our boys that every day is a day to celebrate our country and military, not just November 11.  We always express our gratitude.

I ask you to do the same--to express your gratitude.  To remember our veterans and military every day.  I ask you to please find a different way of doing so, a word other than 'happy.'

Today, and always, veterans of America, I honor you.  Thank you.