“Thank You For Your Service.” That is what this South Shore Press reporter heard over and over as I accompanied my dad through the VA Hospital.
When we think of veterans, we often think of those who gave all on Memorial Day and countless Fields of Honor across America or servicemen in dress uniform at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
But, many, many veterans live on to be old men and women leading long lives after their service. With these long lives come the issues and illnesses of aging. This South Shore Press reporter took a trip to Delaware to help my dad, an Army veteran, through a surgery at the VA Hospital near him.
From the moment we walked in at 6:45 AM, a cheerful volunteer greeted us and thanked my dad for his service.
As I sat in the waiting room, I began talking to those around me. One man I spoke with was an Army Vietnam veteran, another Navy, another Air Force, and one lady veteran, too. Most were Vietnam and Korea and one from the Gulf War. Each had their own stories, and though none of them had ever met, they spoke together as naturally as brothers. They were bonded through war.
After a while waiting, I ventured to the VA Patriots Cafe for a breakfast sandwich I was told was made to order, cheap, and delicious. It did not disappoint! In the corner was the Missing Man Table that is in every VA Canteen – a moving reminder to be thankful that our veterans came home.
Each and every person said “Thank you for your service” as they finished their interactions with my dad. From curb to door and back to curb again, the entire experience was top notch and exuded gratitude for service.