The reason we cannot forget…
Yesterday was July 24th. An auspicious day for this state as they celebrated their pioneer heritage. However; as a veteran it held a different meaning than I’m sure this state intended.
There are many issues surrounding military service. Most of which are set aside once service has ended as we wish nothing more than to forgive and forget if possible. Taking the higher path so to speak. Get on with our lives.
However, there are some things we should not forget. The trials and tribulations endured through years of sacrifice, both mental and physical, are lessons learned that can be conveyed to the next generation.
Lets face it, most civilians, know absolutely nothing about combat. I am NOT by any means stating with any definitive certainty that I do. I'm simply making a correlation here. Please remember, correlation does NOT equal causation. So take this post with a grain of salt, I am not an expert.
The Veterans Affairs is only now beginning to really dig deep into issues surrounding PTSD. They have come a long, LONG, way since the early 2000’s. This is to their credit, they are beginning to listen. There is still a uphill battle. The VA still has yet to provide Legal services to those Veterans that have been taken advantage of when struggling with issues surrounding military service. The side effects of prescribed medications can be insanity, literally.
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I digress though. After speaking with a myriad of ‘older’ veterans about this we concluded on the same idea. The lessons are not just for the next generation. They are for us, so that we do not forget, and there is a poignant reason why.
As we get older there is a significantly higher chance than the normal baseline that, while we may forget the scenarios associated with these trials, the emotional/ physical training connection associated with them will remain. This is a significant factor for us as these can be knee jerk reactions that may in some instances, frighten those around us. Social stigma has waned over the years but it still is a harrowing subject we will save for another post.
Consider that these celebrations are a sort of social connection for veterans. A positive reminder through the years that we can attach to as the memory fades. It will help give us a point of reference when it is time for us to face those issues. Part of our duty is to carry these burdens of war for you, so you never have to.
(This is different than a service dog or family connections but if it helps for you to associate it like that then you may consider that a simplified view).
A lifelong endeavor to keep fighting, never give up, never surrender. It is part of being a warrior though. Knowing the demons better than you know yourself. Doing our best to be physically and mentally strong in the face of all adversity.
So here at the end of all this I just want to give a big shout out to American Legion: Post 100, for showing me not only the promise of a better tomorrow, but more importantly the reasons WHY. (As if I needed any more inspiration than Sweets, Tones, and Bugs already provide.) Thank you to all service members, past and present, let us never forget.
~Solid Stehl~ All Rights Reserved 07/25/2023
