I just wanted to share an experience that happened today as it had an unexpected blessing. As you can tell from my sig my daughter is in the Army and currently stationed 3500 miles from me. I spoke to her on the phone today and long story short, somebody did something very nice for her today. This was in part because he was former Navy (professional courtesy) and partially because he seems like a genuinely nice man. Anyway, after I finished running errands I stopped for lunch at a little Chinese joint by the house that I frequent a little too often. As I was seated, I noticed two soldiers sitting at a table in the center of the restaurant. After I ordered I had a calling placed on my heart and as I have done before, I asked the manager for the checks for the two soldiers. A short time later the soldiers approached and the Sergeant asked "Sir, did you pay for our meals"? I have to tell y'all these were fine examples of our armed service's volunteers. As polite and courteous young men as you would ever like to meet. I explained about my daughter and how I just felt the need to repay a kindness. We talked for just a minute and they headed out. As I sat back down to my lunch, a well dressed gentleman to my left spoke up and said "Thank you for doing that". What? I didn't see that coming. We started talking and he explained how he was in the Navy during Vietnam and had never had anyone treat him that nicely. "I've even had friends who were stoned when they returned home." he said. We shared a little more conversation and before he left I did as I did for the other soldiers, I got to my feet, shook his hand, looked him in the eyes and thanked him for his service and sacrifice. The look in his eyes let me know how special that was to him and now, I find myself sad that I received such a blessing today and didn't have to do a thing but follow the calling placed on my heart. Rick

 

Thanks for sharing that special personal moment with us, Rick! Nearly brought a tear to my own eye there, imaging you two soldiers paying your respects to one another. I for one, am very proud of ALL our service personnel, past and present who, as you have done, answered that calling in their hearts. I'm always reminded of their sacrifices and wonder just how this world would be today without them. God bless you all, and special prayers for your daughter and compadres to be safe and return home swiftly. Thank you for sharing!! :-)

 

Thanks 92Dually, I'll pass the good words on to her! Please understand though, I was not in the military.

 

Thanks from me too.
I am a combat veteran. Today I spent over 100 bucks on items for my old outfit. The young guys in the unit (Tiger Force, 101 Airborne Div) are headed back for their 3d tour, this time in Afganistan.
I get them things like "Bore Snakes" mini binos, small multi tools, LED flashlights with red lenses, and other useful stuff. Couldn't find the small inspection mirrors I was looking for, but I still have time. Several of us old guys from the unit, put a package of this sort of stuff together for the guys, to make their jobs a little easier.
Beats the heck out a ribbon on the back of the truck.
Thanks again for taking care of a couple of the lads. And my sincerest best to your daughter.
My neice is serving in the Navy, just got transfered to the Carrier Reagan.
God Bless them all.

 

82nd airborne 206thMP here

got to thank the guys from guadalcanal and bombing raids over Germany that lost so horrifically, the young Country servicemen. they were guides at the Airzoo in Kalamazoo area, Michigan. then go see the movie that was about the one guide.....I had to hug the one guy. We are truly losing, the greatest generation.

I lost 8 friends in Vietnam, and think of those same ages and ideals that do share the same fears 40 years later, in the desert. unfortunately, now those left are going back, some never coming home. I never see a military uniform at the airport any more.... more healthy men in prison than volunteering---is this our legacy to our kids? shudder.

get all young folk to the grandpas and volunteers, to hear the humble private stories not commonly shared, so they to can share- the love of this country and serving it.

 

Well done Rick! Thanks for sharing, and caring.

I spent 8 years in the US Navy.

I wish your daughter well.

Cliff

 

That's Awesome 'Rad!

Thank You from me too, for doing that. It's people like you who do acts like that, that make this country so Great!

Mind if I ask what happened to your daughter? Not tryin' to be nosey, I just love hearing awesome stories like the one you just told!

God Bless ya man!

 

Ah, had me fooled(but I'm sure not intentionally)! Really makes no difference if a person is a true patriot, eh? You still stepped up and contributed. Best wishes and as they say, Keep the Faith!