The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month
"Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have ever made a difference in the world. A Veteran (and their spouse) doesn't have that problem." Ronald Reagan
Happy Veterans Day. On this day in 1918, at the 11th hour, an armistice was signed by warring parties to end hostilities and bring World War I to a close. Armistice Day as it was originally called, became Veterans Day in June of 1954, recognizing all veterans of all wars. Today Veterans Day recognizes all who served their nation whether they served in combat or not. Each of them wrote a blank check to their country, payable with their lives. Veterans Day is for the living. While we honor our fallen each day, Memorial Day is dedicated to those who paid the ultimate price for their country. Today you can focus on those you know who served their country. And I add their wonderful spouses to this group.
Aside from father and husband, veteran is one of my proudest titles. I cherish moments I have with other veterans in my encore life. Who do you know in your professional life who would take a bullet for you? I suspect only a single person comes to mind or perhaps no one. Serving in the military we are surrounded by people like this - our battle buddies to our left and right and countless others who, while not knowing us personally would put their own life on the line for us. This commitment, this brotherhood and sisterhood is a bond which is fulfilling and reassuring beyond explanation. I feel this instantly when I meet another veteran and it speeds up the relationship instantly.
Today on the 11th hour you can reach out to a veteran and thank them for their service. This thanks, the support and respect we enjoy from our countrymen and women sustains us as a fighting force and it gives our service meaning. But you can do more. As I wrote in my LinkedIn article, "Want to Thank a Vet? Be Their New Sergeant!" you can take the next step following "thank you for your service." Get to know a veteran. Ask them about their adventures in training and combat. Ask them about their cherished memories and about their challenges returning to a society they left behind. I've often said, veterans do not need a hand out or even a hand up. They need a handrail - something or someone to grab onto as they navigate their post-military journey. They need you, perhaps more than you know.
If you are a veteran, walk a little taller and prouder today. Your service mattered. Your service is the noblest our country has to offer and I'm proud beyond words to call you brother, sister, father. May God bless you and may God bless the United States of America!
Colonel Rob Campbell
U.S. Army Retired
Rob Campbell