A Reflection for Veterans Day

by Richard ArvidsonVeterans Day, November 11!

We as a nation have rights which are spelled out in the Constitution. As a combat wounded veteran returning from Viet Nam, I saw one of these rights first hand (freedom of speech). At that time, the protests were in full swing and being in the service was not popular. Because of the draft, people had to make a decision, serve their country or leave. If they served in the military, nobody said, "Thank you for your service."

Members of the military have made great sacrifices so we as individuals and as a nation have these rights guaranteed in our Constitution.

Our nation has been protected by members of the military, and the rights that you have today are because of them. We live in one of the greatest countries in the world. So not only on Veterans Day, but any day, say to a veteran, "Thank you for your service."