I loved the Veteran’s Day special. Though I’ve served in my State Defense Force for many years, I’m regrettably not prior service. I had the good fortune to spend my Veteran’s Day drilling in a National Guard armory alongside my fellow State soldiers, many of whom are prior military. These men and women are closer to me than most of my family, and I feel privileged to call these people my friends.

I used to become incredibly embarrassed whenever people would walk up to me and thank me for my service. A wise old NCO (retired Army) pulled me aside one day and said, “Remember, it’s not who you are, but what you represent to the people saying it.” I’ve never forgotten those words (indeed, I’ve used them a time or two myself since I became an NCO) and I’m always mindful of how I conduct myself whenever I’m in uniform. It’s still embarrassing of course, but it’s also gratifying to know that so many people still respect the sacrifices made by the members of our military, even if their appreciation is misdirected.

So thank you for your service Jack, and to all the other veterans out there.