For over 12 years, I have celebrated Veterans Day alongside my fellow active-duty servicemen and women. However, for the first time in 12 years, this Veterans day is different. A year ago, I made the decision to resign my commission and leave active-duty to be closer to my children. On this Veterans Day weekend, I make my final drive back to where I was raised and I will start a new chapter in my life. This Veteran’s Day, I go from one who serves, to one who served.
Veterans Day has many meanings and as diverse as our Nation is, those meanings are countless. But to those who served, or served, and wore the cloth of our Nation, the day has special significance whether acknowledged or not. This is a day about recognizing commitment, sacrifice, and willingness of those who served to be a part of something larger than themselves. It is about raising their hands and taking an oath to support and defend our Constitution, thereby consciously choosing a path they may not always have complete control over. It is about faith, allegiance, and loyalty for those who defend the concepts and principles our Nation is built upon. However, today is not only about those who served, it is also about those who continue to serve and deploy taking the fight to our enemies time and time again. Veteran’s day is about those that volunteered to do what all cannot, or will not, and recognizing their courage and sacrifice.
Even though my journey home this weekend is somewhat bittersweet and emotional, I can easily look back at the memories from a few days ago when I drove off the compound I called home for years, to the day I received my commission, and even further back to the day I raised my hand to enlist. I can cherish those memories, the lessons learned along the way, and the friendships I have forged. Even though this Veteran’s Day is different than all the others I have experienced in my adult life, I am going to do what I have done for so many years. I am going to recognize those who served before me, those who served alongside of me, and those who will continue to sacrifice and take the fight to our enemies. To each of them, I am eternally grateful for their willingness to defend the freedoms we so casually enjoy.
AV is a Veteran of the US Navy.
From one officer to another, well done in getting down the emotions we all feel on this day. Enjoy Rememberance/Veterans/Armistice Day, in memory of those who served and still do.
Lt T S Milward
B Coy, 2PWRR
Where ever you might be in this country, though you might not see it, you are amoungst people who cannot begin repay what you have done for us and we have the deepest gratitude for your sacrifice.
Thank You for your service.
AV…..You ROCK Brother!!!! Thanks Man!!!!
Av – thank you for this story and for your service. Two things struck me in your story…first, defenders of our constitution. I wish there was more protection of our constitution going on in our own country right now! Second, your last sentence is such a great reminder…”feedoms we so casually enjoy.” We seem to enjoy those freedoms so casually today that they erode out from under our very feet.
Thank you and all who served to protect our constitution and freedoms. You will not be forgotten.
Austin…Thank you for your service. Will be nice to have you back home.
Appreciate the comments folks, along with the support and encouragement.
Our family, and community is so proud of you. You are a fine man. From deep in your Mom’s heart, there is no way but to say, THANK YOU!
Austin,
What a thoughtful, intelligent, and moving piece! The pride that radiates in your mom’s words is palpable…we are ALL grateful for your service and proud of the person you have become.