Knee Deep in the Hooah!

I took this picture of three Korean War Vets at a pro-troops rally in Charlotte, NC as part of the “Move America Forward” Rally that took place the week of “The Gathering of the Eagles” in Washington DC.

This morning Emma and I had to make quick run to the store. As we approached the door there was a gentleman out front asking for donations for something or the other. I have to admit that I have become quite crafty at dodging people who are soliciting money in front of Wal-Mart. You walk fast and look preoccupied, don’t give them any eye contact, because the second you do they own you!

I don’t know what it is like where you live, but here they pounce on you the second they hear your car door slam. “Ma’am, please buy some cookies!” “Ma’am, please send our basketball team on a cruise!” “Please help .” Ad nauseum! Today was different though. From a distance I could see the lettering on the gentleman’s cap and it said “Veteran” on it. He was a frail old soul who still had a posture that communicated he is a proud and strong man. That made me slow down my pace and look him in the eye. He was collecting money for wounded Vets. He, himself, is a Veteran of the Korean War. I told him that I promised I would stop and chat with him on my way back out. I never carry cash on me at all! Ever! So, when I was checking out I found a couple of dollars in change in the bottom of my purse, and I stopped by and chatted with him. He told me about some of his experiences in the Korean War, and he had a mouthful to say about what is going on in Iraq and in Washington. He was preaching to the choir, and he knew he had an interested and amicable ear to talk to. When we finished speaking I touched his hand and thanked him for his service to our Country.

I never carry cash on me, but I have decided that I will always have a couple of dollars set aside to give to the local Vets when they are fund raising. Always. I will never walk past an identified Vet without stopping, looking him in the eye, thanking him and then giving a little something that helps their organization. God Bless you Sir!

Tags: veterans //