What to say on Veteran's Day

[mochamajesty]

Originally Posted by Nov3

Well done!


I'm sure you carry much pride as evident.

Don't backpedal.

I served during the War in Afghanistan - which is the longest war in US history.


Many, many vets 'served' during this time period but did not see combat.


So are you changing your criteria?

[LesserSeneca]

Originally Posted by notasound

I just began seeing a guy who is in the army reserves (was active previously). Even though I won't be able to see him, I want to recognize him tomorrow on Veteran's day. I feel like saying "thank you for your service" seems a little impersonal. Any other ideas on how to recognize his work?

Thank you for your service would be an entirely weird thing to say. Especially since this is a romantic partner. Thank you for your service is like saying good morning or happy thanksgiving or whatever bland generic greeting you say to commoners.


What does he do in the military? What did he do on active duty, what experiences does he have? Knowing more about his actual service would be super helpful to you because you'd know what he was about.


Maybe he likes to have his ego stroked and wants to you say thanks for your service. Maybe he wants to post pictures of him in his dress uniform on his social media platform of choice for some sweet likes or recognition. Perhaps he doesn't really want any recognition.


You have to know the person better for a more personalized "recognition".


Good luck, for next year I guess.

[Steve McDonald]

Originally Posted by notasound

I just began seeing a guy who is in the army reserves (was active previously). Even though I won't be able to see him, I want to recognize him tomorrow on Veteran's day. I feel like saying "thank you for your service" seems a little impersonal. Any other ideas on how to recognize his work?

Don't say that to him. It always irritates me when anyone says that to me. I didn't serve, I was found guilty of being a healthy, young, American male and sentenced to the forfeiture of some of the best years of my life. Even those who go into the "all-volunteer" military of today, are mostly forced into it, by economic hardships. They're trying to survive, that's all, even though some figure they might as well adopt patriotism as an explanation for their sacrifice.

[Submariner]

Originally Posted by Steve McDonald

... Even those who go into the "all-volunteer" military of today, are mostly forced into it, by economic hardships. They're trying to survive, that's all, even though some figure they might as well adopt patriotism as an explanation for their sacrifice.

When I first enlisted, I had been offered a full scholarship to Bell & Howell University [later changed to DeVry].

The majority of crewmen on my first boat already held 4-year degrees.

I got out after 6 years and attended college, later with EE in hand I went back into uniform.

Having an engineering degree does not guarantee economic stability as a civilian.

I do not think that patriotism is a very good reason for enlisting.

[Southern man]

Originally Posted by Steve McDonald

Don't say that to him. It always irritates me when anyone says that to me. I didn't serve, I was found guilty of being a healthy, young, American male and sentenced to the forfeiture of some of the best years of my life. Even those who go into the "all-volunteer" military of today, are mostly forced into it, by economic hardships. They're trying to survive, that's all, even though some figure they might as well adopt patriotism as an explanation for their sacrifice.

Goodness, you have certainly had it rough. I feel so sorry for you.