American Veterans Traveling Tribute

I recently visited the American Veterans Traveling Tribute during its stop at Anderson-Dean Park in Harrodsburg, Ky. The tribute honors all who gave their lives serving in the U.S. military, beginning with the Revolutionary War.

The centerpiece is "The Wall," a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington. There are 58,272 names inscribed -- listed in chronological order and time of the casualty within each day.

I had two classmates die in Vietnam -- James Huckleberry in 1967 and Marshall Jones in 1970. Both would have turned 65 this year.

The memorial is a somber place. Some families in the Harrodsburg area planted small flags, a few with photographs, of the loved ones who died on that foreign soil. They served as a reminders that there were faces behind the names and that many lives were adversely and tragically touched by the unpopular war.  

There were exhibits from Vietnam -- artillery, helicopters, jeeps, photographs, weapons, cots, c-rations, and more. 

If you ever get the opportunity to see the AVTT, I would encourage you to do so. It might give you a deeper appreciation for the ultimate sacrifices many made for our nation. 

And it may even bring you to tears.

For more information, click AVTT.

A Salute to Future Veterans

On 11-11-11 the United States will honor those who have served in the military.

As an Air Force veteran, I also salute the men and women who are currently in the armed forces. You are making sacrifices for our nation and other countries in trying to make this a safer world.

Regardless of how long you plan to serve, make the most of it. It's an experience that you'll cherish as time goes on. Believe me. I look back on my service with many fond memories.

Take advantage of the training, travel, and most of all, the people you encounter along the way. I still maintain contact with guys I served with 40 years ago.

I hope you use the many opportunities you will have, such as  educational benefits and VA home loans. I used my GI Bill to  complete my college education and used the VA program to purchase a home. My sons have done the same.

I look forward to the day when you join me in the ranks of military veterans so I can salute you again.

Until the next time...