General Discussion (Model Railroader)

 Many people don't understand the nature of the freedom we have. They think that if we are free, there shouldn't be an army, or any other military force. COME ON PEOPLE! WAKE UP! It's because of the army and other military forces the you have this precious commodity called freedom. There are people in other parts of the world who would give their lives to have just a little of the freedom you have. I'm a 48 year old disabled veteran and I love the USA. I would gladly give my life to keep this country free. I'm passing the torch of freedom to you. It's time for you to do your part to keep this country of ours free. Maybe after you have a taste of military life, you'll realize what kind of price has been paid for you to enjoy all this. Where else can you openly insult the leader of the nation you live in on national TV. I've lived in parts of the world where people are imprisoned simply for speaking out against taxes. Thank your lucky stars you don't live there. You live in the freest nation on the face of the earth. Enjoy it. But remember, a tremendous cost has been paid for you to do this. This Memorial Day weekend, please remember those who paid the ultimate price and those that are fighting for your freedom at this very moment.

I served in the US Army, 5th Infantry Division, 105th S&T Bn, Co B, Ft. Polk, Louisiana as a truck driver (64C10-70, light, heavy) and I'm proud of it!

I'm also listed on a memorial at the Vernon Parish Veteran's Park in Leesville, Louisiana.





 My name is circled in red here.

 My parents names are listed also.

 
Freedom Isn't free!

Do they let  you draw on the memorial?  Red marker can take years to fade off.

Salute to all Vets, both passed and Alive.

And not only on one day a year.  Let me encourage you all the next time you see a veteran or someone in uniform:

1. Politely walk up to them

2. Reach out with a warm (and firm) handshake and a sincere smile

3. Look them straight in the eye, and

4. Personally express your gratitude to them for their service - past or present.

I've gotten in the habit of doing this - whether at home or while I'm traveling.  It's a great way to meet people and to thank those who have and are currently protecting the freedoms you and I enjoy.

And you don't have to have an outgoing personality to do this.  A simple and sincere "Thank you for your service" is quite ample.  Most service personnel I have met are most appreciative.

I figure it's the least I can do for those who have given the most...

Tom

tstage:

And not only on one day a year.  Let me encourage you all the next time you see a veteran or someone in uniform:

1. Politely walk up to them

2. Reach out with a warm (and firm) handshake and a sincere smile

3. Look them straight in the eye, and

4. Personally express your gratitude to them for their service - past or present

An excellent suggestion. It is, after all, what they have done that allows for freedom to grow----

Jeff: 

Beautifully said. 

Tom

 Well said Jeff. My dad served on the USS Nimitz from 1982-1986, and I'm dern proud of him. I've heard the phrase Freedom isn't free a million times, and ya know what, there is no phrase more true. I love our vets and our servicemen and servicewomen.

Thank you to all veterans, past, present, and future!

jeffrey-wimberly:

I served in the US Army, 5th Infantry Division, 105th S&T Bn, Co B, Ft. Polk, Louisiana as a truck driver (64C10-70, light, heavy) and I'm proud of it!

 You have every right to be proud! Thanks.

tstage:

It's a great way to meet people and to thank those who have and are currently protecting the freedoms you and I enjoy.

Especially when you consider that in some ways, those that serve in the military, have fewer freedoms.

US ARMY M1 Abrams Crewman

 A heartfelt thank you to ALL those who put themselves in harms way to protect our freedom and in particular to the men and women of Canada's Armed Forces and members of these Forums.

Blue Flamer.

Great Suggestion,I served in the US Navy 1956-1960 on a Tincan(Destroyer).

tstage:

And not only on one day a year.  Let me encourage you all the next time you see a veteran or someone in uniform:

1. Politely walk up to them

2. Reach out with a warm (and firm) handshake and a sincere smile

3. Look them straight in the eye, and

4. Personally express your gratitude to them for their service - past or present.

I've gotten in the habit of doing this - whether at home or while I'm traveling.  It's a great way to meet people and to thank those who have and are currently protecting the freedoms you and I enjoy.

And you don't have to have an outgoing personality to do this.  A simple and sincere "Thank you for your service" is quite ample.  Most service personnel I have met are most appreciative.

I figure it's the least I can do for those who have given the most...

Tom

Here's a tip from a Vietnam vet. Whatever you do, whatever you say, please, please avoid any use of the word "incoming" in any context. It can cause a bad case of tachycardia.

Andre - USAF, 1965-1969

Guys, you gotta give credit were credit is due. God bless you Jeffery, we are safe becuse of people like you. I don't know how many people of you are into sorrta rock, but here's a song that says it all. http://www.playlist.com/playlist/15789601547 track number 9. God Bless all. And a thumbs up to everyone that keeps this country safe.

I gotta say, that gesture has more appeal than being spat on-something I never quite got over.

Yellowjacket EF-3

Hi Ed;

From one vet to another, happy memorial Day!   As you served on a Tin Can (which one, incidentally?), you might be interested in an old movie called "The Enemy Below" (Robert Mitchum, Kurt Jurgens).  I'd also like to recommend a book called "Iron Coffins" by Luftkapetane Herbert Werner;  It is a book that gives some balance to an otherwise Godawful war.

One last thing:  If you out there are a vet and haven't looked into medical benefits, this might now be a good time to do so.   You earned them, so use them.  To all of you, God bless each one of you.

Rich; former Ssgt SAC, USAF