A Definition of a Veteran

Borrowed from Mount Rushmore for the dedication

Someone who writes a check to the US government, payable for up to his or her life. I heard this last Sunday from Brigadier General Paul G. Smith, Assistant Adjutant General of the Massachusetts Army National Guard, at the dedication of the Medford, Massachusetts Veterans' Honor Roll Park. The ceremony was to add to the Honor Roll, the names of all Medford residents who served in Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

While I wasn't deployed in any of those conflicts, I remember vividly (then) General Colin Powell announcing the start of Operation Desert Storm, only a few days before my graduation from Basic Training. Gen. Smith made it a point to acknowledge all veterans, including those in attendance. I was taken aback by the overwhelming public attendance and support. Please remember to thank a veteran and offer your support however you can. The smallest gesture can have such an impact.