I just got back from having a free Veterans Day breakfast, compliments of Friendly’s Restaurant. Once again, I am very grateful to see the outpouring of thanks many people in this country give to their veterans. So many people honor veterans not just today, but every day. I truly hope that this sentiment continues, because veterans were not always so highly esteemed.

On a day when I’m frequently hearing “thank you for your service,” I would like to express my thanks to a nation of people who has given me so much. Thank you, my friends…my fellow citizens.

And thank you to my fellow veterans.  It is an honor to call you brothers and sisters in arms.

I thought I would share an article I wrote on this day three years ago, as it expresses the feelings I am once again feeling today.

Intelligent Communication Blog, 11 November 2013

Today is Veterans Day and there are many programs and goings on to salute our nations’ veterans, including ceremonies, television programs and free meals offered by numerous restaurants around the country. I just now returned home from being treated to one such free meal and a few thoughts came to mind. As a retiree from the US Army, I truly appreciate how so many people in this country reach out to thank and serve those of us who chose to serve our nation in the military. I am particularly moved by the sentiment of many people to reach out and help veterans not only today, but all throughout the year. It has not always been the case in our history and it speaks a great deal about the character and generosity those who participate in such activities.

If I may, I would like to take the opportunity to turn the tables a little. I would to thank the citizens of the United States for the privilege I had to serve my country and all that I derived from my years of Army service. My service helped me to grow up. It taught me how to be a leader. I learned skills that I still use today, both in my private and professional lives. It provided me opportunities to see the world. The citizens of my country helped me further my education, both while on active duty and afterwards through the GI Bill. I would not be the man I am today without the US Army and the support this country has provided me.

Thank you America. It was truly a privilege and honor to serve this country. I hope the service I extended to this country was somehow sufficient to warrant the support I have received from you. As a grateful nation continues to show its gratitude, particularly today, let me be a grateful soldier, who received so much from his country.

Very Respectfully,

Randy J. Marcoz, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired), US Army

Be swift to hear and slow to speak,

rjm