The first soldier I remember was my uncle, Melvin Scott, who went into the army when he was 16. The next was Bobby Johnson, my friend Elsie’s brother. They were both men short in physical stature. But they both looked like giants when they put on those official uniforms. To me they even stood taller and grander. I think I didn’t learn much about honoring these guys when I was younger, but when I think of what they and their families, and millions like them, have had to endure while keeping our country safe, I want to find ways to help them. And celebrate them. Especially now that I have Sam, my son-in-love and Arlen, my grandson-in-love.
Merchants apparently have the same idea. There’s almost no place a veteran can’t go for a free meal on Veterans Day. There are food discounts and clothing discounts. Neighbors fly flags. Little people salute if they see a uniform. Wreaths are laid at selective graves to honor those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice. But what about the other days? The 364 other day veterans have to live in this country? What about the rest of the year?
The sacrifices they’ve made are unbelievable. For some, physical injury or lack of mobility. For others, loss of relationships because of the lack of re-entry counseling and care. Still others are suffering from the ongoing shock of the trauma they encountering during service. And some are homeless!!! In this country!!!
It is ungracious of us to forget the sacrifices they’ve made on our behalf. God is not unrighteous to forget our work and labor of love that we have shown in his name, in that we have ministered to his saints. My paraphrase of Hebrews 6:10. Seems forgetfulness is unrighteous and unjust when it leads us to be neglectful of the very ones who have kept us safe.
Look around in the community and see if adequate medical and social care is available for the veterans. Whether or not there is affordable, suitable housing in the area. Whether or not there are veterans on the street begging for bread.
Veterans should have the best quality of life available. Just. Because.
Dorothy Scott Boulware 