Aaron Bresnahan posted on November 01, 2010 00:08
November 2010 Navy
by Aaron Bresnahan
Since its inception just after World War I, that "war that was supposed to end all wars," Veterans' Day has had a special place in the hearts of Americans. Most of us, I'm sure, grew up in small communities from coast-to-coast that held celebratory parades and other memorial activities in honor of those that have served.
AUSN is a strong supporter of veterans' issues and is dedicated to ensuring that veterans are recognized for their special contributions to our nation. AUSN is continually on the "Hill" speaking on behalf of veterans, informing Congress about the essential matters most critical to their health care and their related benefits. The efforts of AUSN are intended to ensure that the most comprehensive veterans' services are afforded to all eligible veterans and their families.
However, despite the initiatives of AUSN and other Veterans Services Organizations, many people from "Main Street" America have lost touch with the importance of recognizing the contributions of veterans. I think, in part, that is because, now, fewer and fewer people come in personal contact with veterans. During World War II, most of the nation either actively served or supported the war effort. During the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, we viewed the war from our living room sofas and probably knew a friend or neighbour that had been drafted to serve.
Today, we have an all-volunteer force. That means a much smaller proportion of the population either serves in the Armed Forces or is employed as a Department of Defense civilian than ever before.
We now have approximately 200,000 troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan; less than 6,500 of those are Navy Reservists. According to the Secretary of the Navy, The Honorable Ray Mabus, less than 1% of the current members of Congress have ever served in the Armed Services. This means, in essence, that out of a population of nearly 300 million, a very small portion are directly affected by the current wars. With such a benign personal impact, I am not surprised that some do not really understand the sacrifices made by today's military personnel and their families. Do most people even know that almost 1,800 veterans pass away each day? That being said, it probably wouldn't take much for us to help our fellow military personnel, and those that have served before, to feel appreciated.
Captain Arthur Clark, a Navy Reservist that has served as an officer in the US Navy for over 26 years, illustrated this point quite poignantly. He shared a story a few months back about a comment his wife had made. His wife, Oksana Clark, made a simple statement. What makes her most proud was knowing that her husband was serving in the military. His dedication to duty in defense of our nation meant the world to her. The fact that he knows his service and sacrifice were appreciated makes all the difference to him.
It really doesn't take much. A kind word; a pat on the back; or a heartfelt sign of respect for those that have served or are serving in our nation's Armed Services. Make a difference today; please tell a vet how much you care.