Remember Those Who Have Served And Fallen

The most groundbreaking part of my journey from the far, far vocal left to the center-left is my attitude toward our American soldiers. Where I once railed against our soldiers in blind, unfocused fury (which still bothers me to this day), I now deeply respect their service to our country. And when I think of those who paid the ultimate cost, it makes me think about how they “stuck to it” to the bitter end no matter the situation. I used to feel that I should join the Armed Forces to pay penance for my past utter disrespect of the brave men and women that are serving and have served in our Armed Forces. But an uncle of mine, who served in Vietnam and heard way too much anti-soldier venom from me back in those blind times, told me in an e-mail two years ago the following:

Man, I’ve watched you grow and change so much. Your realization of a wrong, learning from it, and your deep respect now fills me with joy. You don’t have to serve man! Just keep on respecting and honoring!

So on this Memorial Day, I strongly salute those that are serving, have served, and died in service of the United States Of America. Much respect to you forever and ever…