Yesterday I found myself booked on another "honor flight" with Southwest airlines (I found myself on one last summer.) An honor flight consists of Vets from a state getting flown to Baltimore and then taken down to Washington DC for a special tour and visit. These days, the WWII vets are far fewer and the flights are filled with Korean, Vietnam, and vets from every 'war' the US has been in since. These vets are handed envelopes from school children thanking them for their service. When the plane arrives, it is greeted by fire trucks spraying arches of water over the plane and an honor guard (and all the folks in the airport terminal.) Folks running to airplanes and complaining about late flights all drop what they are doing and stand and applaud............for the entire 15 minutes it takes to deplane these aging warriors. It is quite a sight to see. It is humbling. I speak with them the entire trip. Many of them tell me that war has made them pacifists. Others tell me they still can't shake the nightmares. Others tell me they focus on the good and try to forget the bad. All of them seem to feel undeserved of the attention. Many still are haunted by survivors guilt. MY dad was in the Navy in WWII and he told me much the same, as these living vets. I go out of my way to speak with them and share stories. It is a fulfilling experience. I am happy for your family that your son is home. I wish him well. I hope he finds peace in his life as he goes forward. The war does not always end when these soldiers come home. We should all remember that. btw I was an early sponsor of this project (see the link) and I think your son may find it of interest. https://www.facebook.com/veteranvisionproject/?ref=br_rs Best Regards M
On returning from a crappy week away, I picked this as the first thread to read. It brought a huge smile to my face and a warm fuzzy feeling. So glad your son will be home soon, a huge relief to the family all round.
Bummer about crappy week. Saw you gave me a 'like' a bit back, and was going to welcome you back and ask about your Holiday... hope it was only a weather issue...
I am inspired by everyone's support of serving personnel world wide. I, too, have been on many joyous flights, been a provider to the Military, and have supported various post-service causes. Again, @Bing , what a wonderful feeling to have your Son return to his family safely. I am very PROUD to have recently brought my Son-in-Law, retired US Army, into my new business. We are now a Veteran-Owned business. We will actively serve Veterans. We are a small local business, so our impact will be within a small area. However, we strive to make a big impact where we can. Roman Imperiatorial Marc Antony 32-31 BCE AR Legio X Equestris - Caesar Denarius B bankers mark Eagle Galley Standards
@Bing - Thank you for service and many thanks to your son. I'd like to celebrate his return with you guys by posting one of my favorite coins. Afghanistan, Kabul Red Huns / Small Kushan Kidarite Kingdom Kidara (s.360 AD) AR Drachm 29 mm x 4.11 grams Obverse: 3 /4 Bust of king facing slightly right, wearing crown with streamers, KIDARA KU-SANASA in Brahmi above Reverse: Fire altar flanked by attendants, SULAKHA in Brahmi below. 29mm, Ref:. Göbl, Hunnen Em. 11 Note: Rare and Superb.
When I started this thread, my intention was just to let those who knew my son had deployed last July that he had returned safe and sound. But the outpouring of support for my son and all service people has been very heartwarming, and I thank each and everyone for their thoughts. I spoke with my son about an hour or so ago and told him of the remarks ya'll have made to this thread. He was not only surprised, but humbled to the point of tears. He said to thank you all for your support. BTW @zumbly , I told him about Puddle's Pity Party and he loves it. He is downloading a playlist of Postmodern Jukebox music. Good stuff.