Pikes Peak Area Zonta Foundation

My thoughts for Veteran's Day 2014

My blog from My Colorado View

I am often asked by friends, family, and coworkers, how they can support the military. But, before I share with those interested how they can support the military, as a member of the armed services, I first want to thank every American citizen for giving me the opportunity to serve my country.

As I approach 26 years of service my heart continues to swell, race, and break for all of the amazing men and women I have served with over the years. Not sure I can put all of that into real tangible words but my heart has grown to a capacity that I cannot even explain.

So, what about you? What can you do to support he military? In the coming week I just encourage you to say, “thank you”. Words matter. And look for opportunities to serve.

Personally, I am putting some extra homeless Ziploc bags in my car and I will consciously look for individuals to give them to and say thanks. Typically, I give granola bars, Kleenex, pretzels, crackers, or dried fruit. One in every five homeless persons is a veteran. According to a recent report, there are about 750 homeless veterans statewide in Colorado and on any given night, with about 325 of those in Denver. Throughout the entire year I look for opportunities to support veterans. You do not have to look very far in Colorado to find real needs.

I think this is a great time of year to reconnect. Call someone that you know has served and just check in. Leave a treat on a co-workers desk or celebrate this Tuesday by bringing a carton of half and half to the coffee station with a note thanking vets. (Nothing says true love like half and half) Small things have big impacts.

I get nostalgic during this time of the year. I watch the movie Jarhead.   It is a family tradition, I know most moms and daughters have different time honored traditions – but this is ours. Forest Gump is another great movie and it is typically on several times throughout the week. This next week is a perfect learning opportunity for families, as there are countless documentaries and movies to watch ranging from WWI, WWII, Vietnam, or current conflicts.

I also caution you about the post and email that gets sent around each year to send cards to “Recovering Soldiers” at Walter Reed. This program is no longer up and running. You can still send cards but I suggest sending them to USO or Fisher House. Better yet, next time you are going through DIA take a few minutes and drop in at the Denver USO in Concourse A. I drop off my magazines, newspapers, or books I have finished on the plane when passing through. Or stop by the Fisher House in Denver near the VA Hospital. The Fisher House provides a place for service member’s families to stay when they have extended treatments at VA hospitals. I liken this the “Ronald McDonald House” for military families, but they provide so much more.

So, fly your flags high this next week. Think about the veteran’s that have served in past, those currently in harm’s way and those that will lead in the future.

Soldier Girls

Just started this - looking forward to the read!