My fellow veterans took an oath to defend our country. Some sacrificed their lives to ensure that you may be able to live in a country of freedom. We do what we do not because we agree with what is going on in the world, but because we want to. No one held a gun to our heads telling us to join the military. Our autonomy allowed us to. We wanted to protect our country, to keep our citizens safe, to protect your freedom.
All too often I hear that a veteran has committed suicide. I see that more veterans are becoming homeless. I am astonished that veterans are being turned away from jobs. I feel that no one cares about us. Of all the people, the ones who allow you to live in a land of freedom deserve some gratitude. We deserve respect even though we seldom get it. We do not ask for much.
We just want to live our lives as veterans successfully, just as our fellow citizens. We are tired. We know what it is like to sacrifice. We are just like your average American, except we chose to do what we felt is right. To defend your country is not something you just wake up one morning and decide to do. To go in the line of duty with the understanding that you might not make it back takes a toll on our mentalities. I cannot speak for our combat veterans, for I have never had to face the hardships of war, but I know what it is like to lose a close brother in the line of duty.
It is not something we take lightly. When we lose our fellow brothers and sisters, it takes a toll on our mentality. We are scared. We want help, but have become so used to our military lifestyles and fellow comrades that we are sketchy to talk to anyone without military backing. Not because we do not know you, but because you would not understand. You do not understand what we go through unless you have been there. You do not understand the challenges we face daily.
Veteran suicide is nothing to kid about. In the recent years, the suicide rates have increased; the people have stopped caring. We lose support because of what the media portrays about us. When all we want is just a thank you, someone who understand, and maybe a cup of coffee.
Do me a favor, the next time you see a veteran, thank him or her. For he or she has made the ultimate sacrifice to this nation so you can rest easy each night. We do it without hesitation and we would do it all over again. Semper Fidelis.
