Veterans and Patriotism

Have you ever had a moment where you question where the country is going?

I know I have.

And then there are moments that restore your faith in people. Moments that make you proud to be part of a country that is so great.

One such moment for me was when MG and I were waiting for our flight to Minnesota. We were grabbing a drink at a restaurant, waiting til we could board our flight, and a flight was unloading. And then we saw people holding little American flags. We were wondering what was going on until we saw some veterans getting off of the plane. They were WWII vets, Korea vets, Navy, Army, Air Force and Coast Guard vets. Some were walking alone, some were walking with the help of someone else or a walker, and some were in wheel chairs.

 And every person in the area (with the exception of a few jerks who I glared at) stood up and clapped for the vets the entire time that they deplaned. As each vet made their way by, they were cheered on and clapped for. It was enough to make your heart swell.

What we saw was a group called Honor Flight that takes vets to DC so that they can see the memorials to the wars that they fought in/were a part of.

Watching these vets go by, seeing the people around, who were total strangers (us included), showing respect for people who had risked their lives for our freedom, was incredible. 

The whole time I had a small lump in my throat (I am a sap through and through). And then the second to last person to get off of the plane was a man in a wheelchair. And as he was coming towards me, he had tears streaming down his face. I lost it. Tears welled up in my eyes, and I was so glad that we were able to be part of such a special moment. To recognize people who were courageous and fought for us.

And in that moment, I was more proud to be an American than I have been in a while.

Despite all of the stupid stuff going on in Washington, it was nice to experience this show of  patriotism and respect.
And what better day to share this, than on Veteran's Day.
My dad is a Korea vet, and my grandfather and my uncle were WWII vets. I'm thankful for all of the military people and families who support them, for everything that they have done, are doing, and continue to do.
Happy Veterans Day!