Two years ago I was in San Diego for Veteran’s Day, so I drove downtown with my dog Cody to watch the Veteran’s Day Parade. The parade route was lined four-deep with a diversity of spectators, and the atmosphere was party-like.
The parade lasted well over an hour, and included a very few WW II veterans riding in antique cars, the informal “marching” groups of veterans of all ages enjoying the attention, disabled veterans, marching units of those presently serving, canine corps, and of course high school bands, political dignitaries, and other such revelry. The crowds cheered and waved flags nonstop for every single veteran.
It was truly San Diego at its best.
 Yesterday I attended the Veteran’s Day Ceremony and Potluck hosted by American Legion Post 108. Light snow had been falling all morning, and the cool temperature required hat and gloves, at least for me.
Unlike San Diego, the crowd was sparse, but politely enthusiastic as we applauded our thanks to each and every veteran that was there — each one individually introduced. Although I had not planned on going to the potluck afterwards, I couldn’t resist the invitation and assurance that there was plenty of food for all.
It was my first time inside the American Legion Hall on Hermosa Street, and it was warm (very important) and welcoming. I sat with my friend and Air Force veteran Fred Uehling, and met and shared good food and conversation with many veterans.
To my surprise many of those I met were familiar with my writing, and more than once I was asked if I was going to write an article about the event. “No”, I replied, “I’m here to personally thank you for your service, not as a reporter.”
It’s 3:22am the morning after Veteran’s Day. I woke up an hour ago with the realization that one special way I could show my appreciation to our Pagosa Veterans was to, indeed, write about their wonderful ceremony and potluck I was so fortunate to attend.
So, here you are, dear Veterans. This is my 'thank you' to you.
|