They Are Veterans

They Are Veterans 

Michael Mann
Veterans  Day, 2014

There will be a few parades on TV...if at all;

Some banks, offices and schools will close...but no stores;

Any concerts, special events or ceremonies held...will go largely unnoticed;

Most people, in fact, will pass this day without note;

And that's probably how they would want it...

They are Veterans

They served and serve mostly without notice, notoriety or celebrity 

but with honor and dignity...

They are Veterans

Most never saw or see themselves as heroes or especially courageous...

They are Veterans

Most don't believe they did "anything special" 

but simply the job they willing agreed to do...

They are Veterans

They are or were sons and daughters, 

aunts and uncles, 

brothers and sisters, 

husbands and wives, 

moms and dads; 

friends, neighbors and associates...

They are Veterans

We see them everyday in restaurants and shops, 

offices and factories, 

stores and classrooms, 

churches and theaters 

still quietly contributing to make this the best place on earth...

They are Veterans

Their "day" is not considered a "major holiday" 

yet of all Americans it should be...

They are Veterans

It is their honor, courage and dignity; 

unsung heroics and unseen actions; 

faithful and tireless service - 

sometimes in the face of an unappreciative citizenry and 

without thought of why, politics or agenda - 

that have protected our liberty "from all enemies foreign and domestic," and 

purchased even with their blood and lives the freedom we so often take for granted...

THEY ARE VETERANS!

Although they never ask for or expect it...

Thank you to them all...

They are Veterans