Thanks Robert

Robert 2 hours ago

1

42

As a veteran I'm kind of tired of being compared to this group or that. I served my country because three words meant more to me than anything else...duty, honor and country. For those that want to truly memorialize and honor the fallen veterans or to give tribute to those that are still with us, here is my list of things you can do that would mean more to a veteran than your words:
1) Vote- liberal, conservative, moderate...it doesn't matter. They gave their lives to allow us this right.
2) Fly a flag and put it at half-mast on Memorial Day (and all others). If you don't have a flag pole, get a smaller one you can mount on your home. If all else those simple smaller flags are appropriate.
3) When you're at a ballgame (or other event) actually sing the National Anthem. Take your hat off and put your hand over your heart. Take the time to make sure that little one you took to the game knows what to do also. Sing it with pride.
4) Volunteer at a VA hospital and spend time just talking to them. If you don't have a VA hospital close, find a local nursing home. The odds of finding a veteran there are pretty good.
5) Say the Pledge of Allegiance in your home. Teach it to the next generation. It does mean something.
6) When you get that notice of jury duty, go there with pride that you are doing your civic duty...not remorse or looking for a way out.
7) Respect the Constitution. Read it, understand it...and most important, teach it to others. Respect those with opposing views but never allow it to be compromised.
8) Love our country. Our country is more than a place but our home. It is where we live and raise our children. Speak about it with pride, ensure it is kept clean and most important...know that is is for ALL Americans.
9) Be kind to your neighbors. Black, white, Asian, Irish, Native American, Christian, Jewish, Catholic...I don't seem to remember the bullets of our enemies showing any regard to a fallen soldier's race, creed, color or sex...why should we? Let them know you and they are both Americans. If they're not Americans, let them know you would want them to become US citizens. If they are only here for a short period of time, let them go back to their country thinking how wonderful their USA neighbors treated them.
10) Say 'please', 'thank you', 'yes ma'am', 'no sir', 'you're welcome'. Funny how simple words of politeness have gone away. It seems like we have become a country who same four letter words faster than we say 'thank you'. Even when we disagree...do it with politeness.