Day 11

This one may also sound self-serving but hear me out.

Active duty picture

I'm thankful I served in the US Army. And the reason for that has nothing to do with nationalistic pride (although I am very proud to be a citizen of this country) or because I was all noble and sacrificial (I was 18 and a very typical 18 year old at that, in other words NOT noble and sacrificial). Nope, I'm glad I did it because I was able to live abroad for three years and even more, I was a minority.

I believe everyone should have a chance to be part of a visible minority. I think it would go a long way toward breaking down barriers if we all had to experience being part of the not powerful. Since I was a white female in the military, I was a double minority. I don't recall the numbers that were tossed around back then (remember this was long ago and far away) but I do remember there weren't very many white women in my units.

That's not to say I think for a nano-second that I truly know what it's like to be part of the disenfranchised minorities. My "membership" was temporary and lasted only until my ex and I both got out of the military and returned to the States. People of color, or those with disabilities never get to leave their statuses -- it's not temporary.

Anyway, today is Veteran's Day. I'm glad I served.

Um thanks but

Memorial Day isn't the day to thank veterans for their service. In fact, Memorial Day isn’t about me or any of the other veterans still living. It’s to honor those who died while serving in the military.

Those of us who served have a day already: Veteran's Day. If you still want to thank me, give me a shout on November 11.

You can read more about Memorial Day here, here and here. 

For Veteran's Day information, go here, here and here. 

I just had to get that off my chest. And for those who already thanked me this weekend for my service, you're welcome and really, you don't need to thank me any more. It's all good.