"Thank you for your service"

 

When was the first time you heard, or, said "Thank you for your service?" I addressed this question for Veterans Day 2023, when I spoke to the residents of the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, Iowa.

Approximately 20 some years ago, I was in the radio studio fundraising for WOI Radio in Ames. Our membership director entered the room, and we talked while we were off the air. Suddenly, he said these five words: “Thank you for your service.” I was stunned. Coming from our most unpopular war, I had never heard that.  It took about 25 years for me to hear those words. Now, it is common. Initially, I thought it was disingenuous----like, “have a nice day.” But I’ve changed, and now realize the country has changed too. I think those words come from the heart. Two weeks ago I was at Costco, getting a loaf of their sourdough bread. I was wearing my Vietnam Vet cap. The lady in front of me was Governor Reynolds. We exchanged greetings and she said, “Thank you for your service.”

My reply is something I adopted from another veteran and I suggest you try it. When someone tells me “thank you for your service,” I smile--look them straight in the eyes-- and say, “thank you for your support.” It’s mutual respect that makes us both feel proud. And I hope it encourages them to thank vets all the time.

When did YOU first speak these works, or, hear them as a veteran?