Veteran’s Day
It’s that week again. My phone gets text after text from my Marine brothers saying, “Happy Birthday Devil Dog”. My Facebook is full of Marine and veterans posts with my name tagged in it. My family and friends thank me for my service.
I normally respond with, “Thanks, you too” or just “like” their Facebook post because deep down, I don’t know what to say. I’ve never told anyone before, but I just plain feel guilty when this week comes around. I fulfilled my four year contract but don’t feel like the hero people speak of. My brother doubled his time in service and served in Iraq while I was at home for the birth of my son. I sleep peaceably while others put on their boots and go to work.
Don’t get me wrong, I worked my rear-end off for that four years and logically, I know my “job” was just as important as the next guy’s… but for every time I got that call or message that a friend of mine was killed overseas…I just wished there was more I could do. I feel responsible for those that never got to come home because I wasn’t there with them.
Defending our country has taken so many lives that many people only recognize a few times a year. Americans quickly forget those that create the red stripes in our flag July 5th or the day after Veteran’s Day. Just remember all those BAMF’s out there working for pennies per hour serving our amazing country out of Honor, Courage, and Commitment.
I will never forget those like Rogers, Perkins, Conley, Mortenson, and many more. I have scars on my heart for those that paid the ultimate price for our freedom and for those that are haunted daily by the events they experienced. From our family here at Overwatchdesigns.com to yours, happy birthday jarheads and happy Veteran’s day to all that served….
Oorah and Semper Fi.
David at overwatchdesigns.com
