Thanking My Veteran Today

Most people know at least one veteran who has made a sacrifice to serve and protect our country. Even though today is Veterans Day, we should remember to thank our veterans every day.

Today’s post is my tribute to Travis, who is my hero and a veteran.

Even I forget to thank Travis for giving up his/our life for nine months when he was in Iraq from 2007-2008. I can’t even imagine what he went through being away from home and loved ones, hearing bombs go off every couple minutes and then having to start over when he got home.

We even had it easier than some since he was on a large military base and his tour was shorter than expected. It was still hard. I worried every day. It was very boring. I had a lot more chores around the house.

I really do appreciate Travis so much more now that he’s home, not only for the sacrifice he made, but because I didn’t realize how much he really did around here until he was gone. Almost instantly I remembered my distain for mowing the lawn, I never took the trash out to the curb and I wondered why I ever wanted the front hedge to be so tall.

At least the extra chores kept me busy. Family, friends and gardening really helped me stay sane while he was gone. Fortunately, we were able to talk and video chat almost daily using Skype.

The saddest part of him being gone was something Gavin told us on the day he came home. He didn’t think his dad was coming home from the war — he never expected to see him again. When he hugged his dad for the first time he hung on to him so tight and cried. Can you imagine? Maybe you can.

I am very proud of Travis.  He is my hero because of his strength and compassion, and for taking care of his family.

Just remember,Travis isn’t only my veteran, he’s your veteran too. Along with many others.

You may not believe in the war, but at least believe in the people. Thank them when you see them. Thank them often.