When you take a Veteran to the store you do things his way, no matter how much time it may take.

You know how to listen as he directs you step by step to ready him for the drive. You zip his jacket and buckle the seatbelt of his wheelchair. You allow each step to be analyzed and micromanaged even if you may know exactly what to do. You go outside and prepare the handicap accessible van as he informs his caregivers of his adventure about to take place.

When you take a Veteran to the store you have to safely help him into the specialized van.

You have to reattach bolts to the van battery because it is unbolted to save battery life as it rarely sees the road. You complete each step in order, at his pace because this is his day. It has been about a month since he has seen the scenery outside of the assisted living facility and the inside of a store.

When you take a Veteran to the store, no one knows who he is.

No one but you realizes that he has modestly fought for the U.S. No one but you realizes that although his muscular abilities have declined tremendously, his mind is still sharp as a tack. People stare as you follow him in his powered wheelchair with a shopping cart. It must be a rare sighting, but you ignore the looks and check another item off his shopping list.

When you take a Veteran to the store, you become more appreciative of Veterans in general.

He spends Veterans' Day thanking you and trying to pay you. He does not realize that you want more than anything to thank him but the words will not become vocal. He has fought for your freedom, taught you about history, shared part of his life with you, and trusted you.

And all you did was take a Veteran to the store.