LEST WE FORGET....

Definition of a Veteran:

When a good Veteran leaves the 'job' and retires to a betterlife, many are jealous, some are pleased, and others, who may have already retired, wonder if he knows what he is leaving behind, because we alreadyknow.

1. We know, for example, that after a lifetime of camaraderie that few experience, it will remain as a longing for those past times.

2. 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.

3. We know even if he/she throws them away, they will be on him/her with every step and breath that remains in his/her life. We also know how the very bearing of the man speaks of what he/she was and in his/her 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 and always will be, a member of the greatest fraternity the world has ever known".

NOW! Veteran Friends

VETERAN FRIENDS: Are glad to see you after years, and will happily carry on the same conversation you were having the last time you met.

VETERAN FRIENDS: Have cried with you.

VETERAN FRIENDS: Borrow your stuff for a few days then give it back.

VETERAN FRIENDS: Could write a book with direct quotes from you.

VETERAN FRIENDS: Will kick the crowd's ass that left you behind.

VETERAN FRIENDS: Are for life.

VETERAN FRIENDS: Have shared a lifetime of experiences no civilan could ever dream of.

VETERAN FRIENDS: Will look at you stumbling all over the place and say, 'You better drink the rest of that before you spill it!' Then carry you home safely and put you to bed.

A veteran - whether active duty, retired, or reserve - is someone who, at one point in their life, wrote a blank check made payable to 'The American Military' for an amount of 'up to and including my life'. . . and military spouses are as much veterans as their spouses. From one Veteran to another, it's an honour to be in your Company!

"Thank you Veterans".