Whenever I can, I always extend my hand to a soldier in uniform and say a heart-felt "thank you". Many times, they're grateful to be acknowledged, and frequently they're taken a bit off guard. Then, they smile a huge smile and say, "You're welcome, ma'am!" Some will add, "No problem!"
One of my sons was recently playing golf with a group of friends. Within the group was a gentelman who my son said was about my and his Dad's age. My son learned that the gentleman was a Viet Nam vet. Immediately, my son stopped his game and extended his hand in thanks to the surprised veteran.
"Both my grandfathers were in World War 2 and my parents taught me to always say thank you and shake a verteran's hand. Thank you for your service, Sir." I guess the guy was totally blown away by my son's action. The kid may be 41 years old, but he learned well at his parents' knees. Made this mom proud.
Recently, my husband (not a verteran, but the son of WWII B-17 pilot and one who has deep reverence for the military) put an ad on Craig's list, selling some of our season tickets for San Jose Sharks hockey home games.
A young woman from San Diego contacted him, wanting to purchase a pair of tix for her boyfriend's birthday. He is in the military, from the SF Bay Area, is a Sharks fan, and is scheduled to be home at the time of a particular game.
Well, he sold her the tix...but wanted to add something of a "Thank you for your service and sacrifice." My husband bought a $25 MasterCard gift card and enclosed a note with the tickets, thanking the young man.
He told the soldier to have a "beer and hot dog" on him and to enjoy the game.
I thought that was very kind and sweet. My husband's eyes were a bit moist as he was writing the note.
You see, when my husband was a youngster, his dream was to attend the Air Force Academy. When he was in jr. high school he developed a pysical condition that permanently kept him from military service. He has tremendous respect and empathy for soldiers.
Remember, it's the soldier that protects our freedom...not the politician.