I remember the first time a civilian thanked me for my service. I almost punched him. I thought he was f@#kin' with me. This of course was at the time our country was welcoming home it's Viet Nam veterans. Rather belatedly, I might add.
I never felt the need for gratitude. My Country owes me nothing. I owed it. I had a great time. I got to have experiences and relationships that civilians can only dream about and I'm a member of a Brotherhood that few can claim membership. None the less, I appreciate your thoughts on this Memorial day. My thoughts on this Memorial day will be with the over 400 Corpsman who didn't come home from that god awful green suck.
Semper Gumby
Doc.