Veterans days past were old dudes, funny hats and wreath laying ceremonies. Serious, it was there as a closing story on the six o'clock news. As a kid hardly acknowledge other than maybe 5 minutes talking about it for current events except for my grade school. Our principal was Mr. Fortalka, a former Marine and he'd wear his uniform from his Marine service days to school on Veterans day. I thought it was the epitome of coolness.

Vets today are treated to ice cream, donuts, coffee, free lunches, parades, 10% off washers and dryers at Sears and a percentage of off all items at bed bath and beyond. Thanks... I appreciate the recognition, but how about we just take care of our WW II vets, and assist every man or woman with a service disability from the various actions and wars we have been in. It's owed to them. Period, end of discussion. Cupcakes are nice, mental healthcare and medications are mandatory for these men and women.

Sorry to rant, but it's becoming a vogue thing to honor our vet's every Nov 11th and it seems to grow each year but by the end of November it's kinda like the party is over and us Vets go back into our lives with knowing looks, nods and that unspoken understanding that we accept as fact of having served. We "GET" each other- it's tough to describe wearing a uniform to someone who has not done so. It's just different and unless you've done it you just can't understand. I don't know where I am going with todays rant but Veterans Day kinda makes me uncomfortable.

I accepted a free cup of coffee from Starbucks today as a token of their appreciation. It was offered right there at the drive thru by a cheerful peace loving beatnik coffee barista who (I am not lying) had a peace pin on her smock... She was a pro at assisting in my PaD so she rates as "okay" in my book.

From a vet, I thank you from the bottom of my soul for your well wishes and words of thanks. Next year, I think I am going to a local VA hospital or other service organization to give a day of my time to help someone with a service disability. I'll bring donuts and coffee too, but I think there is so much more to be done to make a difference.