Column: Thank you, veterans

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Commentary by Jim Serger

It’s a time to recognize those who have given so much to our country. It’s a time to respect those who have served our country with valor, honor and dignity. It’s a time to honor those who took the call to defend our country at their free will or through the government calling them to arms. Moreover, it’s a time to thank our neighbors, co-workers and in-laws who sacrificed so much that we can live in the land of the free.

To all the veterans out there, with the highest of thank you, we salute all of you — the Marines, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force and Army.

According to the Army Study Guide, a proper salute goes as follows: Raise the right hand sharply, fingers and thumb extended and joined — palm facing down and the tip of the right forefinger on the rim of the visor, slightly to the right of the eye. According to modern military manuals, the Western salute originated in France when knights greeted each other to show friendly intentions by raising their visors to show their faces, using a salute.

According to vocabulary.com, a salute is a sign of respect. A soldier may salute senior officers by raising a hand to his or her head, or you may informally salute a neighbor with a tip of your hat.

With all the respect, a huge high-five, as well as a big hug to all that have served the finest country in the world, this salute is for you; this special day is yours and you deserve it. Walk tall and proud, for you deserve that free meal; you deserve that free oil change today; you deserve those free red, white and blue pancakes; you deserve that free tall-brewed coffee; you deserve that phone call of thanks; you deserve that hug.

So, on this Veterans Day, our country will celebrate these magnificent men and women from World War II, Korean War, Vietnam, Gulf War, the war in Afghanistan, and all other conflicts in which these veterans have fought. Our nation cannot thank you enough. You are true heroes; you don’t need a cape or a big “S” on your chest to prove you are one. Your true heroism is on display 365 days a year, through the way you carry yourself with pride and professionalism.

The American flag waves freely because of you. Thank you.

Jim Serger is a Carmel resident.


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