When I entered the US Navy at age 19, shortly after high school graduation, in the winter of 1973, having no clear direction in my life, I was exposed to a whole new world of commitment, dedication and discipline. I soon began to realize that I was actually part of a unique group of American patriots, ready to experience whatever challenges came my way. The time I spent as a sailor was eye opening… exposing me to new cultures, new people and new ways of handling life’s tasks. This after making a Mediterranean cruise aboard an old WWII style aircraft carrier (her very last cruise before being scrapped after 31 years in service, the Franklin D. Roosevelt, CVA 42.) In Naval terms, while overseas, I was TAD (Temporary Active Duty) to the USS FDR as a member of Photographic Squadron, VFP-63 out of Miramar, California. I was known as a PH2… Photographer’s Mate, Second Class Petty Officer, when I was honorably discharged from active duty in 1977.
Those years afforded me the opportunity to see how other folks were living around the world. Or at least those throughout the part of Europe I had visited. I began to see then that living in a free country under the greatest democracy ever known had given me advantages… individual freedoms, self-esteem and the respect of others, chances to grow and advance with no clear obstacles standing in my way. I felt privileged, with a responsibility to uphold my stature. I learned that I was truly serving my country, it’s diverse culture/population, and it’s powerful democracy. Represented by many past presidents who were duly elected by the people and sworn in to serve this country as well. Many of whom had also served in the US military.
Today as a US Navy veteran, the foundation that I built upon so long ago as a younger man has stayed with me and has become the basis for my personal ideology. I also realize how lucky I was to have served in a peacetime Navy, coming through unscathed. Whereas, so many veterans before and after me were not as fortunate.
So for me, Veterans’ Day in America, November 11 each year is a very special time of reflection. To realize that we all still live in the greatest country in the world. That our democratic republic is fragile and requires awareness, participation in and individual responsibility to continue yielding the highest quality standard of living in existence anywhere in the world.
This Veteran’s Day, 2025, as you display your flag, watch a parade or even take advantage of a special sale, remember what this day really represents… we are honoring those past and present, young and old, male and female of all races and origins who have served in our United States military. And as for me, I will again respect, reflect and observe accordingly. And when someone says to me, “Thank you for your service,” I will proudly, calmly, respectfully acknowledge them with, “Thank you, you’re welcome.”