Viet Nam was a special war, special people died their, and special people came home from their. At that time and place, we had a job to do. To us it was no different than Iwo – Okinawa – Germany – Japan, or any other war fought by this great Nation of ours. While I was their, I never felt that we were wrong in being their. I saw good and bad, lots of both. But. at eighteen, nineteen, and twenty, My Country said I needed to be their. I believed in my country then, and I believe in it today. All I have to do is look around and count my blessing’s, along with the rest of the folks that make up this Great Nation. Perfect, not by a long shot, but by far better than any other part of the world that I have seen. These words really aren’t meant for most non Military folks, I am simply reinforcing the feelings of the ones that were their. Most of us were all in the same boat, proud to have served our Country. Came home proud. But, were Stunned by the reception upon our return. A whole year of our life just seemed to vanish. No discussion’s with almost anyone about THE EXPERIENCE you just went through. Hide it, keep it inside. Not really knowing what it all meant. Some of our unfortunate brothers couldn’t hide from their past, they brought the signs of war with them. We just wanted to fit in, and that was tough for any young man that had been through what we had been through. However, there seems to be a brighter side to some of this, and I believe that it may have come as a surprise to those of us veterans that are, let me be fair here, still looking for a little acknowledgement, proud to have served, [Marine Corps or otherwise] or maybe just flat out enjoy wearing your Marine Corps Hat. Or it might even say, Viet Nam Vet on it. You have in some way let people know that you served your country. And unless you are lucky enough to look like a kid, your age will tell them what era you served in. My point is this. My father served and fought in New Gina. And he did get the acknowledgement for serving when he came home. However he passed at the age of 86 and no one mentioned his service to him for the next 60 years. Now, here is where I am going with this. I am now fast approaching 71. I wear my Marine Corps hat quite often. Started at about 65. I can’t count on my fingers and toe’s how many young, old, and in between Marines I have met because of it. Also I have been thanked for my service many many times. And no, it’s not something I am looking for, but it is nice to hear something you missed years ago, when you are a little closer to checking out. Semper Fi Marines, and thank you for your service! Rest in peace to our fallen brothers. You will not be forgotten!
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