Attention Fellow Veterans ~
Due to recent discussions with a couple other Vets, and knowing about the passing of more of us each day, I thought I'd post these thoughts.
Our WWI Vets are gone now. We are losing more and more of our WWII Vets every day, and their numbers have really dwindled. Our slightly-older brothers-in-arms from the Korean War, are also getting older and they'll be following our WWII Vets home more and more. And for my generation, we Vietnam Vets are no spring chickens anymore either.
When our Veterans go to their final resting place, they take with them all their memories. If no one captures those memories on recordings or on paper, then no one can learn anything from what they could pass on.
I have started something of a journal, or book, for myself. I have no plans on marketing such a thing (although many do so with much success), but do want to have it printed off, at least for my kids, and their kids. I want it to tell MY story, and share my thoughts and memories. I want it to be here, long after I go home one last time. It is NOT a "hero's" story, but it is MY story or MY experiences and perspectives. In some ways, I can write, what I can not say aloud to anyone.
Everyone has to deal with their experiences in what ever way is right for them. But, my fellow Vets from all conflicts, I would encourage you to document YOUR thoughts and experiences, and keep them for those who will follow some day. With today's computers and flash drives, it is easier than ever to write such thoughts down and save them until YOU are ready for anyone else to read them. You (and I) don't have to be a "writer", you just write. Or, have someone you can talk to, write it down for you. And if you need to, made audio recordings and save those.
I would encourage all Veterans to do so. And for the record, I am still working on my own memories, and it's taking me more than 10 years, and I'm still not done. It hasn't been a constant effort, but when ever I can just sit quietly nto myself and add some lines. You too may have some things you can't say even to yourself yet, but don't let that stop you from starting, and putting down those things you have to say or share.
And with flash drives, you can write, then save, and keep it as private as you want it to be. But do not miss the opportunity to get your thoughts down. They are part of you. They may be lessons to be shared to others, after your passing, if not before. Only YOU can share those.
THANK YOU to all our Vets, past and present, on this Veterans Day.
God Bless you all.
