Oh, I agree. I hate the “Thank you for your service” thing. I nver know what to say. Don’t thank me, thank Nixon? Don’t thank me, I was kidnapped by a draft number? Don’t thank me, I was just a hired thug.

It’s all so knee jerk, like they are required to say it. No one ever says, I’m so sorry, wish it had been me.

That I would love to hear.

And veterans do get appropriated for all sorts of projects and purposes. I have never joined any veterans’ organization or taken part in any cause.

I use the VA because it’s there and it’s (sort of) free.

I don’t consider myself special, just lucky to get home. As I said, I don’t want to be anyone’s pet person or pet project. When asked for an opinion, if I like and trust the person, I offer one. If not, I don’t.