JD, Patrick and Tyler, just got this from a kid that worked for me in the USAF 35 years ago, we still keep in touch... it will help Tyler understand what he is in for.... his dad as well as many here already know.
Veteran to Veteran
When a Veteran leaves the 'job' and retires to a better life, many are
jealous, some are pleased, and others, who may have already retired, wonder
if he knows what he is leaving behind, because we already know.
We know, for example, that after a lifetime of camaraderie that few
experience, it will remain as a longing for those past times.
We know in the Military life there is a fellowship which lasts long after
the uniforms are hung up in the back of the closet.
We know even if he throws them away, they will be on him with every step
and breath that remains in his life. We also know how the very bearing of
the man speaks of what he was and in his heart still is.
These are the burdens of the job. You will still look at people
suspiciously, still see what others do not see or choose to ignore and
always will look at the rest of the Military world with a respect for what
they do; only grown in a lifetime of knowing.
Never think for one moment you are escaping from that life. You are only
escaping the 'job' and merely being allowed to leave 'active' duty.
So what I wish for you is that whenever you ease into retirement, in your
heart you never forget for one moment that you are still a member of the
greatest fraternity the world has ever known.
A veteran - whether active duty, retired, served one hitch, or reserve is
someone who, at one point in their life, wrote a blank check made payable to
'The Government of the United States of America ' for an amount of 'up to
and including my life'.
From one Veteran to another, it's an honor to be in your company. Thank you
for your service to our country and defending the freedoms we enjoy!!
Tyler, thanks for your service
