This holiday is the perfect time to reflect on my service, my family and my recent book birthday. On a day when most Americans talk about sacrifice and acknowledge service members, I suggest we keep this a year-round activity. In the quiet moments, when no one is around to witness the act, ask yourself what you have done in your life to support those returning from war. I know that despite my service, I can never give enough.
Squared Away is a book about friendship between two female veterans and battle buddies. Parts of the book reflect on what it means to be a "good soldier". Both women have different views about what this means. For my veterans, let's have the tough conversations. For all others, when a veteran speaks, listen. When a veteran asks for a job, consider them. When a veteran asks for help, help them.
George Washington is quoted about the treatment of veterans, "The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional as to how they perceive the veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation."
Happy 4th of July!
