Author notes

Veteran's Day 2009

Gatoris

on Nov. 10, 2009

I've had generations of my family serve in the armed forces. One branch of my ancestors came over as a hired gun during the American Revolution. Had an ancestor serve during the Civil War. Pretty sure I had one serve in World War I. My maternal grandfather, whom passed on a couple years ago, served proudly in World War II. My great uncle on my father's side served in Korea. Had an uncle on my mother's side serve during Vietnam. My father was drafted and was prepared to go as well, but he failed his physical. Yet I currently choose not to serve.

Why is this? I consider myself a pacifistic realist. I prefer not to fight, but will if the call comes. Does this disrespect my lineage? Not in the least. I support and am thankful daily for our troops whom fight for and protect our freedoms. It is my belief, however, that the greatest honor for all the soldiers that have ever sacrificed their lives would be an end to war.

…good crap, I'm sounding like Andy Rooney. But that is beside the point.