My Fellow Veterans: Thank You

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Today is the only day of the year I get to pat myself on the back because today we celebrate Veterans Day.

I served this nation from 1983 until the end of Operation Desert Storm in 1991. In fact, I was scheduled to be discharged on January 29, 1990, but the air campaign against Iraq began on January 16.

As a result, I was asked, as were many others, to remain in service until our military operations were successfully completed.

It was my second deployment to the Persian Gulf. I served aboard the USS Sampson (DDG-10) from January 1986 until May 1990, and during that period we made several deployments.

My initial exposure to the Middle East was during our first deployment from October 1986 until April 1987, during the time Iran and Iraq were at war.

My experiences during that deployment proved to be a portent of things to come.

We departed the Persian Gulf region in March to make the long journey back to Mayport, FL.

The ship that replaced us was the USS Stark (FFG-31), also based in Mayport. On May 17, 1987 the Stark was struck by two Exocet missiles fired from Iraqi warplanes. The ship was set afire and caused serious damage and many casualties.

USS Stark FFG-31

Thirty-seven of my fellow sailors lost their lives that day, not more than two months after we left the same operational area as the Stark.

Since 1954, Veterans Day has been celebrated on November 11 in honor of those that have served in all wars throughout our nation’s history.

Today gives me pause to thank all of those that served before me, and those that have served since my discharge from the military.

This isn’t your normal federal holiday; this day is unique, not to be enjoyed by veterans alone, but for all Americans.

Today we are given the opportunity to cast aside differences, political affiliations, and opinions. Today is blind to race, creed, sex, and socio-economic background.

U.S. Marines Raise The Ensign on Iwo Jima

Every American enjoys a standard of living and freedoms unequaled anywhere else on this earth.

Those freedoms that we often take for granted were paid for by those that gave their lives for the benefit of all Americans, for every generation.

Today we recognize those that have served our great nation during World War 1 and World War 2, Korea, Vietnam, Operation Desert Storm, Afghanistan and Operation Desert Freedom.

To the families and friends of those that have given their lives in service to our country, please accept my deepest condolences and my sincere thanks.

So on this very special day, if you know of a family member, friend, a co-worker, a teacher or a coach, please take five seconds and utter two words: Thank you.

We don’t want parades and celebrations, just a simple gesture to recognize our service.

Thank you again to all of those that have served and please enjoy a safe and happy Veterans Day.