There are a few circumstances in life that can radically change you. One of those is becoming a member of the U.S. Armed Forces. My grandfather, Ray Carter Davis, did it by choice. My great-uncle, Carroll Anthony, did it by choice. Many men of my father's generation had the choice made for them. Regardless of whether military service was volunteered for or not, it truly alters you forever.
For my grandfather, it cost him an eardrum and other physical issues for the rest of his life. I cannot fathom the experiences he endured. I cannot because he never spoke of it. It cost my great-uncle his life. It cost my grandfather his brother and, as a result of that loss, pain and guilt the rest of his life.
Yes, some people lose their lives. Some lose body parts or body functions. Some bear invisible wounds, such as brain injuries and PTSD. Some come away physically and psychologically unscathed. But no one, NO. ONE. comes away unchanged.
Military service, whether in a war zone or on peacekeeping missions, whether at home or abroad, whether active or reserve, changes you. Maybe it gives you discipline you lacked as a youth. Maybe it makes you stronger or more confident in ways you could never imagine. Maybe it makes you jaded and skeptical. Maybe it instills a pride in humanity. Maybe it makes you confused or angry. But it irreversibly alters you. That doesn't have to be a negative thing.
To every person who has served and still has breath, THANK YOU. You have my unending gratitude and unwavering support. I do not take for granted what you have offered, given, or lost. For every person who has lost their life in service of this nation, of me and my family, THANK YOU.
And to all the family members, thank you for all that you sacrifice as well.
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